What is a Claude Code Skill?

A skill is a modular package containing a SKILL.md file and optional resources like scripts and assets that extends Claude's ability to handle specific tasks or domains.

What is the principle of progressive disclosure in skills?

It is a three-level loading system (Metadata, SKILL.md, and Resources) designed to provide Claude with only the information it needs at the moment, saving context window space.

How do I trigger a specific skill in Claude Code?

Skills are triggered based on the 'name' and 'description' fields in the YAML frontmatter of the SKILL.md file. Using specific trigger phrases helps Claude identify when to activate the skill.

What belong in the references/ folder of a skill?

The references folder should house detailed documentation, schemas, and policies that Claude can load into context as needed, keeping the main SKILL.md file lean.

Claude Skill Development

Name: Claude Skill Development
Author: tzachbon

bytzachbon

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144

Developer Tools

Guides the creation and optimization of specialized skills for Claude Code plugins using structured workflows and best practices.

About

This skill provides a comprehensive framework for developers to build, organize, and refine modular capabilities within the Claude Code ecosystem. It standardizes the skill creation process—from initial requirement gathering to the implementation of progressive disclosure principles—ensuring that specialized knowledge is delivered to Claude in a context-efficient manner. By following this guide, developers can create robust plugins that leverage scripts, reference documentation, and static assets to transform Claude into a domain-specific expert.

Key Features

Optimized progressive disclosure strategies for context management
Automated directory structure planning for plugin integration
144 GitHub stars
Guidance on bundling executable scripts and reference materials
Standardized multi-step skill creation and validation workflow
Best practices for writing imperative instructions for AI consumption

Use Cases

Building a new domain-specific skill for a custom Claude Code plugin
Refining skill metadata and trigger phrases to improve AI activation
Restructuring legacy skills into lean, resource-backed modules

About

Key Features

Optimized progressive disclosure strategies for context management
Automated directory structure planning for plugin integration
144 GitHub stars
Guidance on bundling executable scripts and reference materials
Standardized multi-step skill creation and validation workflow
Best practices for writing imperative instructions for AI consumption

Use Cases

Building a new domain-specific skill for a custom Claude Code plugin
Refining skill metadata and trigger phrases to improve AI activation
Restructuring legacy skills into lean, resource-backed modules