creating-agent-skills

Structure a Claude Code SKILL.md file using a consistent XML format with mandatory frontmatter and modular components. Apply progressive disclosure patterns to keep the file under 500 lines while exposing deeper knowledge in separate references and workflows.

The router pattern in skill design is a template structure that routes processing logic to modular components. It enables progressive disclosure by keeping the main SKILL.md concise while delegating complex workflows and references to external files.

Validate Claude Code skills using built-in quality checks, reference patterns, and workflow examples. This ensures reliable skill creation and maintenance by enforcing a consistent XML structure, mandatory frontmatter, and modular component formatting.

Use progressive disclosure in skill authorship when a SKILL.md file exceeds 500 lines or contains complex logic. It keeps the main file concise by moving detailed knowledge into modular references and workflows, improving discovery and interoperability.

Yes, you can use structured SKILL.md templates for both simple and router-based skills. These templates provide consistent metadata and body formatting, enabling teams to adopt reliable patterns and validation practices for skill creation.

Progressive disclosure in skill design requires strict XML-structure discipline and modular component management. If references and workflows are not properly linked, the skill may fail to expose deeper knowledge correctly, impacting discovery and maintainability.