AI Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation FAQs

Question 1

What is a Claude Code Skill?

Accepted Answer

A skill is a specialized reference guide for proven techniques, patterns, or tools that enhances Claude's behavior and helps it apply effective approaches to specific tasks.

Question 2

When should I create a new skill versus using CLAUDE.md?

Accepted Answer

Create a skill for reusable techniques or patterns that apply across multiple projects. Use CLAUDE.md for conventions that are specific only to the current project or repository.

Question 3

Why shouldn't the skill description summarize the workflow?

Accepted Answer

If the metadata summarizes the workflow, Claude may follow that summary as a shortcut instead of reading the full, detailed instructions inside the SKILL.md file, leading to missed steps.

Question 4

What is Claude Search Optimization (CSO)?

Accepted Answer

CSO is a set of guidelines for writing skill descriptions that help Claude find and load the correct skill. It focuses on describing triggering conditions rather than summarizing the internal workflow.

Question 5

How does TDD apply to writing documentation?

Accepted Answer

TDD for skills involves running a pressure scenario to watch an agent fail (Red), writing the skill documentation to make the agent comply (Green), and then refining the text to ensure no loopholes remain (Refactor).

AI Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation

AI Skill Authoring & TDD Documentation

Key Features

Use Cases

Key Features

Use Cases