How to Write SKILL.md Files

Master the art of writing effective SKILL.md files for Gemini with best practices for structure, prompting, and defining clear skill behaviors.

1. 1

   Start with a Clear Title and Description

   Begin your SKILL.md with a level-1 heading that names the skill, followed by a brief description of what it does. This helps both users and the AI understand the skill's purpose.

2. 2

   Define the Trigger Section

   Add a '## Trigger' section specifying how the skill is invoked. Use command triggers (/command-name) for explicit invocation or context triggers for automatic activation.

3. 3

   Write Detailed Instructions

   In the '## Instructions' section, provide clear, specific instructions for the AI. Use imperative language and be explicit about expected behavior, output format, and constraints.

4. 4

   Include Examples

   Add a '## Examples' section with input/output pairs. This grounds the skill's behavior and helps the AI understand edge cases and expected formatting.

5. 5

   Add Context Requirements

   Specify what files or context the skill needs access to in a '## Context' section. This ensures the AI has the right information when executing the skill.

6. 6

   Test and Iterate

   Run your skill multiple times with varied inputs. Refine the instructions based on outputs, adding clarifications where the AI deviates from expected behavior.