Compare · skills vs agents

Skills vs Agents

Updated Jun 18, 2026 · By fisher

Decision Table

ConceptRole
SkillReusable task capability
AgentSystem that plans and executes work
ToolExternal capability or API
RulePersistent instruction or convention

Gotchas

Do not make every reusable instruction into a separate agent. Start with skills when the workflow is narrow.

FAQ

Are skills the same as agents?

No. Skills are reusable capabilities; agents are systems that use capabilities to complete work.

Can an agent use multiple skills?

Yes. A strong agent workflow can combine several narrow skills.