An AI skill file records the task's purpose, ordered steps, decisions, quality requirements and expected output. The file gives the agent durable instructions that can be reused without recreating the process in every conversation.
The file should remain focused and maintainable. Larger references, scripts and templates can live beside it, while the main instruction document explains how those resources fit together and which permissions or checks the workflow requires.
ELI5
A skill file is the main instruction document inside an AI agent skill. It explains when to use the skill, the ordered workflow, important choices, safety limits, quality checks, and the expected result.
For example, an image-review skill file can tell the agent which files are eligible, how to inspect them, and what evidence to report. Large references or scripts can stay beside it so the main guide remains focused and maintainable.
What should an AI skill file explain?
It should explain the workflow purpose, activation conditions, steps, decisions, available resources, quality rules and output format.
Why keep scripts separate from the skill file?
Separate scripts provide deterministic operations and can be tested directly, while the instruction file remains readable and focused on workflow intent.
