Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation FAQs

Question 1

How do I maintain token efficiency in skills?

Accepted Answer

To save context window space, skills should be kept concise (under 200-500 words), move technical details to CLI help menus, and use cross-references instead of repeating instructions.

Question 2

What is Claude Search Optimization (CSO)?

Accepted Answer

CSO is a set of techniques used to ensure Claude can find the right skill at the right time. It involves using specific 'Use when...' triggers in descriptions and avoiding workflow summaries that might cause the AI to skip the full documentation.

Question 3

Why apply TDD to writing skills?

Accepted Answer

Applying Test-Driven Development to documentation ensures the skill is necessary. By watching an agent fail a scenario without the skill first, you verify that the documentation provides the specific guidance required to achieve success.

Question 4

When should I create a new skill versus a CLAUDE.md entry?

Accepted Answer

Create a skill for broad, reusable patterns or techniques that apply across multiple projects. Use CLAUDE.md for project-specific conventions and mechanical constraints.

Question 5

What is a Claude Code Skill?

Accepted Answer

A Claude Code Skill is a specialized reference guide containing proven techniques, patterns, or tools that enhance the AI's behavior when performing specific domain tasks.

Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation

Key Features

Use Cases

Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation

Key Features

Use Cases