Skill Authoring & Documentation TDD FAQs

Question 1

What is the difference between a Skill and CLAUDE.md?

Accepted Answer

Skills are reusable techniques or patterns that apply broadly across projects, whereas CLAUDE.md is reserved for project-specific conventions and local environment details.

Question 2

What is the recommended length for a Claude Skill?

Accepted Answer

To maintain context efficiency, frequently referenced skills should aim for under 200 words, while general skills should stay under 500 words where possible.

Question 3

How do I optimize skills for Claude's search?

Accepted Answer

Use 'Claude Search Optimization' (CSO) by starting descriptions with 'Use when...', focusing on triggering conditions and symptoms rather than summarizing the internal workflow.

Question 4

What is a Claude Code Skill?

Accepted Answer

A skill is a specialized reference guide for proven techniques, patterns, or tools that enhances how Claude performs specific tasks in a domain-specific context.

Question 5

Why use TDD for writing documentation?

Accepted Answer

Applying TDD to documentation ensures the skill is necessary and effective. By watching an agent fail without the skill (Red) and pass with it (Green), you prove the documentation actually solves the intended problem.

Skill Authoring & Documentation TDD

Key Features

Use Cases

Skill Authoring & Documentation TDD

Key Features

Use Cases