create-agent-skills

A SKILL.md file defines a Claude Code Skill using required YAML frontmatter and markdown body content. Proper skill authoring requires following specific naming conventions, structural rules, and progressive disclosure patterns to ensure the agent processes instructions correctly.

To optimize Claude Skill discovery, craft effective name and description fields within the YAML frontmatter. Writing clear, targeted descriptions helps the agent identify when to trigger the skill based on user intent and search context.

Best practices for Claude Skill authoring include using progressive disclosure patterns within the markdown body and organizing supplementary data into reference files. This structure keeps the main skill concise while providing detailed context when needed.

Yes, you can create a Claude Code Skill from scratch by following a step-by-step guide. The process covers basic skill structure, required YAML frontmatter, and markdown body content, making it accessible for agent development without deep prompt engineering expertise.

Progressive disclosure in SKILL.md files involves structuring the markdown body to present core instructions first, then referencing external files for deeper context. This pattern optimizes agent performance by loading detailed information only when required.