skill-development

To structure a Claude Code skill reliably, use a SKILL.md file with third-person YAML frontmatter containing specific trigger phrases that dictate discovery, followed by imperative operational instructions.

Progressive disclosure in plugin skill development separates lean trigger-loaded essentials in the SKILL.md body from on-demand deeper material stored in references to prevent context window bloat.

Validate a Claude Code skill by checking its SKILL.md metadata structure, verifying progressive disclosure keeps the file lean, and ensuring scripts, references, and assets are correctly organized without duplication.

Use references in a SKILL.md file for on-demand detailed guidance and scripts for reusable code, keeping the main file lean while applying progressive disclosure to load materials only when needed.

Keep SKILL.md under target size by applying progressive disclosure: retain only triggers and core procedures in the main body while offloading detailed workflow content to bundled references.

Yes, writing Claude Code skills requires third-person YAML frontmatter in the SKILL.md file because the name and description fields directly affect how the skill is discovered and triggered.