plugin-structure

Scaffold Claude Code plugins with canonical directory and manifest structure.

Updated Feb 9, 2026

Search Tags:#skills #agents #commands #claude-code #auto-discovery #plugin-structure #plugin-manifest

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/nsalvacao/nsalvacao-claude-code-plugins --skill plugin-structure-nsalvacao

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: plugin-structure
Source: https://github.com/nsalvacao/nsalvacao-claude-code-plugins/tree/main/plugins/plugin-dev/skills/plugin-structure
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/nsalvacao/nsalvacao-claude-code-plugins --skill plugin-structure-nsalvacao

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Claude Code plugin development often lacks a single, canonical structure, leading to inconsistent layouts and governance across commands, agents, and skills. This skill provides a blueprint for plugin layout, manifest usage, and auto-discovery to ensure consistency and scalability.

Core Features & Use Cases

Canonical directory layout guidance for commands, agents, skills, and hooks
Clear guidance on plugin.json manifest and custom path configurations
Auto-discovery patterns and multi-layer organization for scalable plugins
Use cases include scaffolding new plugins, reorganizing existing plugins, and documenting component governance

Quick Start

Consult this guide when starting a new plugin to scaffold directories, manifest, and components.

Frequently Asked Questions about plugin-structure

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

FAQPage Schema

What is the canonical directory layout for a Claude Code plugin?▼

To scaffold a new Claude Code plugin, define the canonical directory layout for commands, agents, and skills. Include a plugin.json manifest for configuration and ensure each skill contains a SKILL.md frontmatter with name and description for auto-discovery.

How do I reorganize an existing Claude Code plugin for better auto-discovery?▼

Yes, the plugin structure supports custom path configurations defined within the plugin.json manifest. This allows you to specify alternative locations for scripts, references, or assets while maintaining the auto-discovery patterns required by Claude Code.

Do I need a plugin.json manifest to use skills in Claude Code?▼

The canonical plugin structure distinguishes itself by providing a standardized multi-layer directory layout for commands, agents, skills, and hooks. It enforces SKILL.md frontmatter governance and plugin.json manifest usage to ensure consistent auto-discovery, unlike ad-hoc plugin layouts.

When should I use multi-layer organization for Claude Code plugin components?▼

Claude Code plugin development requires a canonical structure to prevent inconsistent layouts across commands, agents, and skills. Using a standardized directory structure with SKILL.md frontmatter and a plugin.json manifest ensures scalability and reliable auto-discovery.