| name | example-skill |
| description | This skill should be used when the user asks to "demonstrate skills", "show skill format", "create a skill template", or discusses skill development patterns. Provides a reference template for creating Claude Code plugin skills. |
| 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
- Clear purpose: State what the skill helps with
- When to use: Define activation conditions
- Structured guidance: Organize information logically
- Actionable instructions: Provide concrete steps
- 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
