skill-authoring

Define authoring standards for local skill packages with frontmatter and validation patterns.

1|1|Updated May 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/matt-riley/agent-skills --skill skill-authoring-matt-riley
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: skill-authoring
Source: https://github.com/matt-riley/agent-skills/tree/main/skills/skill-authoring
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/matt-riley/agent-skills --skill skill-authoring-matt-riley

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill provides a standardized reference for authoring reusable agent skills, helping maintain consistent activation language, layering, examples, and validation patterns across the catalog.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Provides minimum frontmatter guidance and a stable skeleton for new skill entries.
  • Defines when to use authoring references versus creating or updating a specific skill.
  • Encourages shallow, reusable support files and clear routing between related skills.

Quick Start

Read the Skill authoring reference to align your SKILL.md with the catalog's standards and start from assets/skill-template.md to scaffold a new skill entry.

Frequently Asked Questions about skill-authoring

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I standardize skill frontmatter and activation language for local agent packages?

To standardize skill frontmatter and activation language, apply a reusable authoring reference that enforces concise metadata, shallow support files, and accessible structures to guide consistent skill creation.

What is the best way to scaffold a new reusable skill package?

The best way to scaffold a new reusable skill package is to start from a provided skill template, which provides a stable skeleton and minimum frontmatter guidance aligned with catalog standards.

When should I use an authoring reference versus updating a specific skill?

Use an authoring reference when creating new skill entries or establishing design standards, and update a specific skill when modifying its existing activation language, layering, or validation patterns.

How do I create validation patterns for agent skills?

To create validation patterns for agent skills, apply a standardized authoring reference that defines consistent layering, examples, and validation rules across the skill catalog.

Can I use templates to enforce consistent layering and examples across multiple skills?

Yes, you can use templates to enforce consistent layering and examples across multiple skills by applying a standardized authoring reference that defines clear routing and reusable support files.