skill-creator

A SKILL.md file requires YAML frontmatter metadata at the top (name, description, and other fields) followed by Markdown body content with workflow guidance. The frontmatter defines how Claude recognizes and loads the skill, while the body provides step-by-step instructions and context for the task you're automating.

Frontmatter must include name and description fields in YAML format at the file's beginning. Best practices involve clear naming, concise descriptions, and organized metadata to ensure the skill triggers reliably and loads with minimal context overhead.

Yes, skills support optional bundled resources like scripts, references, and assets alongside your SKILL.md. These bundles use progressive loading semantics, meaning resources load only when needed, keeping initial context lightweight while supporting complex automation workflows.

Validation steps include checking that frontmatter is well-formed YAML, that body instructions are clear and actionable, and that bundled resources (if included) load correctly. Test the skill end-to-end in the relevant use case—onboarding, domain automation, or tool integration—to confirm it triggers and executes as intended.

Structure body instructions as a logical workflow from metadata interpretation through execution steps to optional resource handling. Use clear headings, numbered steps where procedural, and progressive disclosure so Claude understands both the immediate task and where bundled resources fit into the larger automation.

Basic familiarity with YAML syntax is helpful but not essential—the frontmatter structure is minimal (key-value pairs in simple format). This skill provides templates and guidance so you can create skills for onboarding, domain automation, and tool integration workflows without deep YAML expertise.