AI Plugin IndexWhat are Claude skills?
A Claude skill is a folder with a SKILL.md file: instructions, and optionally scripts and templates, that teach Claude how to do a specific task, such as filling in PDF forms or writing in a brand voice. Claude reads the short description of every installed skill and loads the full skill only when a task needs it.
What is inside a skill
The SKILL.md file starts with a name and a description, followed by instructions in plain text. A skill folder can also hold scripts, examples and reference files that Claude uses while doing the task.
---
name: brand-voice
description: Use when writing marketing copy for Acme. Applies tone, banned words and formatting rules.
---
# Brand voice
...How Claude uses skills
Only the name and description are always in context. When your request matches a description, Claude loads the rest of that skill. That is why you can install many skills without slowing Claude down, and why a clear description matters.
Where they work
Skills work in Claude Code, the Claude apps and the Claude API. In Claude Code, put them in ~/.claude/skills/ or a project's .claude/skills/ folder. See how to install skills in Claude Code.
Questions
Are skills the same as MCP servers?
No. A skill teaches Claude how to do something with instructions and files. An MCP server gives Claude new tools that reach outside systems. They work well together. See skills vs MCP vs plugins.
Can a skill be unsafe?
Yes. A skill can include scripts and instructions, so only install skills from sources you trust and read the SKILL.md first.