# Extracting Entities

> Extracts individual entities from a large source document and creates separate .md files for each one. Use when a source contains multiple distinct entities that should each have their own file, or when user says "extract", "pull out entities", "split this file", or "create files from this source". Does NOT compile scattered info about one entity — use /compiling-entities for that.

- Skill: `alainator/extracting-entities` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add alainator/extracting-entities`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/alainator/extracting-entities/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: alainator (https://skillmd.com/u/alainator)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/alainator/extracting-entities

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# Extracting Entities

Pull distinct entities from a source document into individual files.

## Process

1. Read the ENTIRE source file
2. Identify every distinct entity needing its own file
3. Present extraction plan for approval before writing
4. Extract with YAML frontmatter (status: draft), cross-references

## Rules

- One entity per file
- Never write files until extraction plan is approved
- Preserve source content faithfully — do not summarize

## Out of Scope

Does NOT compile scattered info about one entity (use /compiling-entities).
Does NOT write original content (use /writing-worldbuilding).