Agent Development

Design and validate Claude Code agent files with required frontmatter and system prompts.

Updated Feb 15, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ricable/mcai --skill agent-development-ricable
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Agent Development
Source: https://github.com/ricable/mcai/tree/main/.agents/skills/agent-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ricable/mcai --skill agent-development-ricable

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you design, write, validate, and organize autonomous agents for Claude Code plugins without guessing at the required structure or trigger logic.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Agent File Design: Defines the required frontmatter fields, naming rules, model selection, color choice, and optional tool restrictions.
  • Trigger Engineering: Shows how to write strong description text with clear activation conditions and concrete usage examples.
  • System Prompt Architecture: Provides patterns for building second-person instructions with responsibilities, workflows, quality standards, and output formats.
  • Validation and Testing: Includes a validation script and reference guidance to check agent files for formatting, completeness, and usability.
  • Use Case: A developer wants to create a new review agent for a plugin, so this Skill guides the full process from concept to validated markdown file.

Quick Start

Use this skill to create a Claude Code agent specification that includes frontmatter, triggering examples, and a complete system prompt.

Frequently Asked Questions about Agent Development

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I create a Claude Code agent with the correct frontmatter and system prompt?

To create a Claude Code agent, you need to define required frontmatter fields, naming rules, and model selection. The agent file must include structured second-person system prompt instructions with clear responsibilities, workflows, and output formats.

What is trigger engineering for Claude Code subagents?

Trigger engineering for subagents involves writing strong description text with clear activation conditions and concrete usage examples. This ensures the agent activates correctly based on user intent rather than relying on vague descriptions.

How do I validate a Claude Code agent file before deploying it?

You validate a Claude Code agent file by running a validation script that checks the markdown formatting, frontmatter completeness, and overall usability. This ensures the agent conforms to structural rules and trigger logic before deployment.

Can I restrict specific tools when designing an agent for a plugin workflow?

Yes, you can apply optional tool restrictions when designing an agent for a plugin workflow. This allows you to limit the agent's operational scope and prevent unauthorized tool usage during autonomous execution.

What are the naming rules for Claude Code agent files?

Naming rules for Claude Code agent files require specific frontmatter fields and naming conventions to ensure proper plugin integration. Following these rules guarantees that the agent is recognized and triggered correctly within the system.

Why is my Claude Code subagent not triggering correctly?

Your subagent is likely not triggering correctly due to weak description text lacking concrete activation examples. Trigger tuning requires clear activation conditions and example-based guidance to ensure the system prompt matches user intent.