Guide · skills md

SKILL.md Format Guide

Updated Jun 18, 2026 · By fisher

Start with purpose, then scope, trigger conditions, steps, examples, output rules, and gotchas.

Common Mistakes

  • Too many goals in one skill.
  • No examples.
  • Vague trigger language.
  • No negative cases.

How to Test the File

Run the skill against three inputs: obvious success, ambiguous input, and edge case.

FAQ

What is a SKILL.md file?

It is the main markdown file that defines how a skill should behave.

What makes a SKILL.md file good?

Narrow scope, examples, constraints, and clear output expectations make a SKILL.md file stronger.