# Formatting Rules

> The model MUST write frontmatter descriptions following these rules.

- Skill: `tools-only/formatting-rules` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add tools-only/formatting-rules`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/tools-only/formatting-rules/raw
- Safety review: pending (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: tools-only (https://skillmd.com/u/tools-only)
- Updated: 2026-09-29
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/tools-only/formatting-rules

---


The model MUST write frontmatter descriptions following these rules.

## Formatting Rules

1. **Single-line only** - Never use YAML multiline indicators (`>-`, `|-`, `>`, `|`)
2. **No colons** - Avoid colons (`:`) as they trigger YAML quoting. Swap it for something else or rephrase.
3. **Front-load critical info** - First 1024 characters are most important
   - Claude Code may truncate to 1024 chars in some contexts
   - No hard limit, but keep key information in first 1024 chars
   - Convey purpose, triggers, and value early

A description should be a complete and informative explanation of what the skill does and when to use it. Include WHEN to use this skill - specific scenarios, file types, or tasks that trigger it.

## Validation

After writing, validate with the validation script `plugin_validator.py`

```sh
 plugin_validator.py [file]
```