# Write A Skill

> Use when: create or improve an agent skill with proper frontmatter, structure, triggers, and progressive disclosure.

- Skill: `kimtth/write-a-skill` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add kimtth/write-a-skill`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/kimtth/write-a-skill/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: AI & ML
- Author: kimtth (https://skillmd.com/u/kimtth)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/kimtth/write-a-skill

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Goal: create skills that load only when useful and stay easy to inspect.

Use for:
- new `SKILL.md` files
- refactoring bulky skills into compact workflows
- fixing discovery descriptions or folder/name mismatches
- deciding when references or scripts are justified

Workflow:
1. Define the task, trigger phrases, target user, and expected output.
2. Choose whether the skill is instructions-only or needs bundled assets.
3. Create `skills/<name>/SKILL.md` with matching frontmatter `name`.
4. Put trigger language in `description`; quote descriptions with colons.
5. Keep the main file concise; move long reference material only when needed.
6. Validate frontmatter, folder name, line count, and actual invocation fit.

Structure:
- goal
- use for
- workflow
- output
- rules

Rules:
- do not create a skill when a short prompt or README note is enough
- scripts are for deterministic repeatable work, not decoration
- keep public examples executable and minimal
- avoid broad always-on wording in descriptions