What Is a Claude Skill?
The Short Version
Claude Skills are best for repeated workflows: processing PDFs, generating slide decks, reviewing code, or following a domain-specific SOP.
When to Use a Skill
Use a skill when the task has repeatable steps, reusable constraints, known gotchas, and examples that improve reliability.
When Not to Use a Skill
Do not create a skill for a one-off prompt, vague brainstorming task, or workflow that changes every time.
What a Good Skill Includes
- Clear scope.
- Trigger conditions.
- Step-by-step process.
- Examples.
- Known limitations.
- Installation notes.
FAQ
What is a Claude Skill?
A Claude Skill is a reusable capability package that gives Claude task-specific instructions and supporting context.
Are Claude Skills the same as MCP?
No. Skills package reusable task behavior; MCP connects models to external tools and resources.