demonstrating-skill-format

name	demonstrating-skill-format
description	Provides a reference template and structural guide for creating Claude Code plugin skills. Activates when the user asks about skill development patterns, requests a skill template, or wants to understand the SKILL.md format and frontmatter options.
version	1.0.0

Example Skill

This skill demonstrates the structure and format for Claude Code plugin skills.

Overview

Skills are model-invoked capabilities that Claude autonomously uses based on task context. Unlike commands (user-invoked) or agents (spawned by Claude), skills provide contextual guidance that Claude incorporates into its responses.

When This Skill Applies

This skill activates when the user's request involves:

• Creating or understanding plugin skills
• Skill template or reference needs
• Skill development patterns

Skill Structure

Required Files

skills/
└── skill-name/
    └── SKILL.md          # Main skill definition (required)

Optional Supporting Files

skills/
└── skill-name/
    ├── SKILL.md          # Main skill definition
    ├── README.md         # Additional documentation
    ├── references/       # Reference materials
    │   └── patterns.md
    ├── examples/         # Example files
    │   └── sample.md
    └── scripts/          # Helper scripts
        └── helper.sh

Frontmatter Options

Skills support these frontmatter fields:

• name (required): Skill identifier
• description (required): Trigger conditions - describe when Claude should use this skill
• version (optional): Semantic version number
• license (optional): License information or reference

Writing Effective Descriptions

The description field is crucial - it tells Claude when to invoke the skill.

Good description patterns:

description: This skill should be used when the user asks to "specific phrase", "another phrase", mentions "keyword", or discusses topic-area.

Include:

• Specific trigger phrases users might say
• Keywords that indicate relevance
• Topic areas the skill covers

Skill Content Guidelines

1. Clear purpose: State what the skill helps with
2. When to use: Define activation conditions
3. Structured guidance: Organize information logically
4. Actionable instructions: Provide concrete steps
5. Examples: Include practical examples when helpful

Best Practices

• Keep skills focused on a single domain
• Write descriptions that clearly indicate when to activate
• Include reference materials in subdirectories for complex skills
• Test that the skill activates for expected queries
• Avoid overlap with other skills' trigger conditions