writing-skills

Test-driven development for Claude Skills follows a RED-GREEN-REFACTOR cycle: write failing tests first, then implement the Skill's three-layer structure (metadata, instructions, resources), and refactor for clarity. This ensures deterministic execution and model-agnostic applicability across projects.

Claude Skills use a three-layer structure: Level 1 metadata (name and description in YAML frontmatter), Level 2 instructions (reusable workflows and patterns), and Level 3 resources (supporting files). Start with SKILL.md and organize supporting files under a structured directory hierarchy.

Document workflows by structuring them as Claude Skill components with explicit metadata, tested instructions, and resource templates. This creates pressure-tested, reusable patterns that satisfy functional requirements and enable consistent execution across multiple Claude instances and projects.

Yes. Claude Skills support progressive disclosure and iterative authoring through their three-layer design. You can edit instructions and resources incrementally while maintaining test coverage, enabling continuous refinement without breaking metadata constraints or execution determinism.

Skill metadata includes frontmatter with two required fields and token budgets, plus name and description in Level 1. These constraints ensure model-agnostic applicability and deterministic execution paths for evaluation across different Claude instances.

TDD catches functional gaps early against Level 1–3 requirements, ensuring Skills meet metadata promises and CSO guidance. Comprehensive test coverage improves discoverability by demonstrating that the Skill executes reliably and solves documented problems consistently.