How to Create Claude Code Skill

Outline required files and structure for creating Claude Code Skills.

6|2|Updated Oct 20, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ClaudeCode-NPC/Whispers-from-the-Star --skill how-to-create-claude-code-skill
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: How to Create Claude Code Skill
Source: https://github.com/ClaudeCode-NPC/Whispers-from-the-Star/tree/main/.claude/skills/create_skill
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ClaudeCode-NPC/Whispers-from-the-Star --skill how-to-create-claude-code-skill

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This guide helps developers understand how to structure and build Claude Code Skills, including the mandatory SKILL.md frontmatter and the organization of optional components to support scalable skill design.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Defines the required minimal skill structure with a SKILL.md containing name and description, plus an at-root structure for optional assets like scripts, references, and assets.
  • Explains how to reference additional documentation, how to version and organize multiple related skills, and how to apply progressive disclosure to manage context.
  • Provides a safe, best-practice blueprint for creating, testing, and maintaining Claude Code Skills in projects and repositories.

Quick Start

Create a new skill directory with a SKILL.md containing the required frontmatter and a minimal body to bootstrap the skill.

Frequently Asked Questions about How to Create Claude Code Skill

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I create a Claude Code Skill from scratch?

To create a Claude Code Skill, set up a new directory with a SKILL.md file containing required frontmatter fields like name and description, then add optional assets, scripts, or references at the root level.

What is the required structure for a Claude Code Skill?

A Claude Code Skill requires a SKILL.md file with mandatory name and description frontmatter. Optional components like scripts, references, and assets are organized at the root level to support scalable design.

How does progressive disclosure work when organizing Claude Code Skills?

Progressive disclosure in Claude Code Skills manages context by referencing additional documentation externally rather than embedding it, keeping the core SKILL.md minimal while supporting complex project structures.

What are the frontmatter constraints when building a Claude Code Skill?

Claude Code Skill frontmatter constraints require mandatory name and description fields while enforcing specific metadata field limits, ensuring safe and well-structured skill creation without invalid configurations.

Can I version and organize multiple related Claude Code Skills in a single repository?

Yes, you can organize multiple related Claude Code Skills within larger repositories. The structure supports versioning and referencing shared documentation to maintain scalable skill design across projects.

What's the best way to list components and dependencies in a Claude Code Skill?

The best practice for listing components and dependencies in a Claude Code Skill is maintaining a clear, explicit inventory in the SKILL.md to ensure safe execution and well-structured project organization.