How do I keep my skills token-efficient?

The skill recommends moving heavy references to separate files, using cross-references instead of repeating instructions, and aiming for word counts under 200 for frequently loaded skills.

What is Claude Search Optimization (CSO)?

CSO is a method of writing skill descriptions focused on triggering conditions ('Use when...') rather than summaries, ensuring Claude correctly discovers and loads the skill when needed.

Why apply TDD to writing skills?

TDD ensures documentation is necessary and effective; by watching an agent fail first, you identify the exact gaps the skill needs to fill, preventing redundant or ignored instructions.

What is a Claude Code Skill?

A Claude Code Skill is a specialized reference guide or capability stored in a specific directory (~/.claude/skills) that helps Claude apply proven techniques and patterns to tasks.

Skill Authoring TDD

Name: Skill Authoring TDD
Author: claudiodearaujo

byclaudiodearaujo

0•

Learning & Documentation

Applies Test-Driven Development principles to the creation, verification, and refinement of AI skills and process documentation.

This skill adapts the rigorous Red-Green-Refactor cycle to the creation of Claude Code skills, ensuring that documentation effectively guides AI agents in real-world scenarios. By requiring authors to observe an agent failing a task before writing the skill, it eliminates guesswork and ensures that instructions directly address specific failure modes and logic gaps. It provides a standardized framework for building robust, token-efficient, and highly discoverable reference guides that enhance Claude's capabilities across any project.

Key Features

01Standardized directory and frontmatter structures

02Red-Green-Refactor workflow adapted for documentation

03Pressure-testing strategies using subagent scenarios

04Claude Search Optimization (CSO) for better skill discovery

05Token-efficient formatting and progressive disclosure patterns

060 GitHub stars

Use Cases

01Developing new reusable technical patterns for Claude Code

02Verifying that documentation actually influences agent behavior before deployment

03Refactoring existing workflows to be more concise and token-efficient

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add claudiodearaujo/izacenter writing-skills

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

Download Skill