compose:new-skill

Create a directory containing a SKILL.md file with YAML frontmatter defining a name and description, followed by a Markdown body with numbered, verifiable steps. Optionally add supporting reference files and a scripts directory for helper utilities.

A SKILL.md file requires a name field with a unique kebab-case identifier and a description field with one sentence stating when the skill applies. Optional fields include hidden to exclude the skill from listings and allowed-tools to restrict tool access.

Write a skill when the same multi-step procedure repeats across tasks or sessions, when domain heuristics and checklists must be applied consistently, or when a workflow needs explicit gates and artifacts that should not depend on model memory.

Start with an Overview section stating purpose and trigger conditions, then decompose the procedure into numbered verifiable steps. Call out failure modes and expected artifacts per step, and keep each step self-contained so an agent can resume after interruption.

Loading failures typically come from malformed YAML frontmatter, a leading separator left in the rendered body, or a body below the minimum size threshold. Verify the frontmatter strips cleanly and the body contains substantive numbered steps before shipping.