create-agent-skills

A router pattern skill routes intake queries to specialized sub-skills, unlike a simple skill that executes logic directly. Router patterns manage complex workflows by distributing tasks, while simple skills handle single, contained operations without routing logic.

Progressive disclosure in skill authoring separates knowledge into references, templates, and workflows rather than embedding everything in one file. Use it when building complex skills to maintain clarity, reduce context load, and keep skills maintainable and compliant.

Audit existing Claude Code skills by validating frontmatter rules, checking router pattern implementation, and reviewing progressive disclosure structure. The methodology provides maintenance workflows to upgrade and align existing skills with current best-practices and governance standards.

The best way to organize references and templates for slash commands is applying progressive disclosure: separate static knowledge into reference files, reusable structures into templates, and execution logic into distinct workflow files within the skill directory.

Upgrade a simple skill to a router pattern when the skill must handle multiple distinct intake routes or complex workflows. Router patterns add overhead but provide better routing, validation, and maintainability for skills with diverse operational branches.