Build your own way of working · chapter 15 of 17
Build your first skill
A skill packages a bounded workflow so it can be reused with the same trigger, method, resources, boundaries and verification.
15.1 · plain explanation
How do we move from a task that worked once to a workflow that can be activated again?
A skill packages a bounded workflow so it can be reused with the same trigger, method, resources, boundaries and verification.
Important: A skill is more than a saved prompt. It also preserves when the method applies, which resources it needs and how execution is checked.
15.2 · building blocks
Three concepts to keep separate
Trigger
Describe precisely when the skill should and should not be used.
SKILL.md
Contains purpose and instructions; place scripts, references and templates beside it only when they are needed.
Test
Try both positive and negative user requests and check that the correct skill activates.
15.3 · method
A practical workflow
- 1Choose one recurring job.
- 2Write a name and description with a clear trigger.
- 3Add a short sequence, boundaries and expected evidence.
- 4Test the skill in a small example and improve it from observed failures.
15.4 · concrete example
Responsive page review
Responsive page review
How do we move from a task that worked once to a workflow that can be activated again?
The skill triggers when a website must be assessed at several viewport widths.
It names the viewports, gathers DOM measurements and screenshots, rejects horizontal overflow and produces a short evidence report.
15.5 · try it yourself
Exercise
Create a skill folder with SKILL.md. Write frontmatter with name and description, followed by purpose, steps, boundaries and verification.
15.6 · checklist
Before you continue
- Does the skill own one clear job?
- Is the trigger precise?
- Are resources loaded only when needed?
- Is the result verifiable?
15.7 · sources
Sources
Reviewed 23 September 2026. Official sources support product-specific claims; the practical contract, memory and verification patterns are Finnandre project methods.