A Claude Skill packages instructions for a repeatable workflow. Start with one task and one SKILL.md file. Give the skill a description that tells Claude what it does and when it should apply. Then test it against one relevant request and one unrelated request.

Write a small SKILL.md

Create a folder named release-notes-review and place SKILL.md inside. This example reviews a draft without publishing it:

---
name: release-notes-review
description: Review draft app release notes for clarity. Use when asked to review release notes or a changelog.
---

# Release notes review

1. List the changes stated in the draft.
2. Flag claims that need evidence and unclear version numbers.
3. Suggest a concise edit that preserves the stated facts.
4. Return the review in chat and wait for approval.

Keep the folder focused. If you have a long style guide, put it in a separate reference file and tell the skill when to read it. Start with text instructions so you can see whether the workflow helps before introducing scripts. See Anthropic’s Agent Skills documentation.

Upload the skill to Claude

  1. Zip the folder so the archive contains release-notes-review/SKILL.md. Keep that folder inside the ZIP.
  2. Open Claude and go to Customize → Skills. Use the create or upload control and select the ZIP.
  3. Enable the skill if prompted. Availability and controls can depend on your workspace settings. See Claude’s custom skill setup instructions.
  4. Give Claude a draft with one clear change and one unsupported claim. Ask it to review the release notes. Check whether it flags the claim and keeps the change intact.

Improve when it triggers

If the skill runs on unrelated messages, narrow the description. If it misses the right task, include one or two phrases your team actually uses. Keep a sample input and the expected result so you can test again after changing the instructions.

Can I use a skill in Claude Code?

Claude Code also supports project skills. For this example, put the folder under .claude/skills/ so the file is at .claude/skills/release-notes-review/SKILL.md. Read the instructions and any executable files before adding a skill from someone else. Claude Code FAQ.