# example-skill > Demonstrates the structure and format of Claude skills, serving as a template for creating new custom skills with proper workflow steps, examples, and documentation. - Author: JD - Repository: jd-santos/Dotfiles - Version: 20260206171158 - Stars: 0 - Forks: 0 - Last Updated: 2026-02-08 - Source: https://github.com/jd-santos/Dotfiles - Web: https://mule.run/skillshub/@@jd-santos/Dotfiles~example-skill:20260206171158 --- --- name: example-skill description: Demonstrates the structure and format of Claude skills, serving as a template for creating new custom skills with proper workflow steps, examples, and documentation. version: 1.0.0 author: jdwork category: meta tags: [template, example] --- # Skill: Example Skill ## Description This is a template/example skill that demonstrates the structure and format of a Claude skill. Use this as a starting point when creating your own custom skills. ## Instructions When this skill is loaded, follow these guidelines: 1. **Understand the Task** - Read the user's request carefully - Identify the specific goal and desired outcome - Ask clarifying questions if needed 2. **Plan the Approach** - Break down complex tasks into smaller steps - Consider dependencies and prerequisites - Identify potential challenges or edge cases 3. **Execute Systematically** - Follow best practices for the relevant technology - Maintain consistent code style and conventions - Document important decisions and rationale 4. **Validate and Verify** - Test the implementation - Check for errors or issues - Ensure the solution meets requirements 5. **Communicate Clearly** - Explain what you're doing and why - Highlight important changes or considerations - Provide next steps or recommendations ## Examples ### Example 1: Simple Task ``` User: "Use the example skill to help me create a function" Claude: Following the example skill workflow: 1. Understanding: You need a function created 2. Planning: I'll ask about parameters, return type, and purpose 3. Execution: [creates function with proper style] 4. Validation: [explains testing approach] 5. Communication: [explains the implementation] ``` ### Example 2: Complex Task ``` User: "Use the example skill to refactor this module" Claude: Applying the systematic approach: 1. Understanding: Analyzing current module structure 2. Planning: Identifying refactoring opportunities 3. Execution: Making improvements incrementally 4. Validation: Ensuring functionality is preserved 5. Communication: Documenting changes and benefits ``` ## Prerequisites - None - this is a general-purpose example skill - Adapt the instructions for your specific use case ## Notes This example skill demonstrates: - Clear structure with numbered steps - Actionable instructions - Concrete examples - Flexible guidelines that work across different contexts When creating your own skills, customize each section to provide specific, relevant guidance for your particular use case. ### Writing Descriptions The `description` field in frontmatter should be verb-first and include searchable keywords: ```yaml # Good - verb-first, searchable description: Runs database migrations safely with backup verification and rollback support for PostgreSQL databases. # Bad - vague, passive description: A skill for database stuff that helps with migrations. ``` Start with an action verb (Creates, Runs, Audits, Generates, Deploys) followed by what it does and relevant context.