How to Use Skills with Claude
Once you've installed skills, here's how to make the most of them in your Claude Code workflow.
Invoking Skills
Skills can be invoked in several ways:
Direct Commands
Many skills respond to specific commands or keywords:
Hey Claude, can you help me with [skill name]?
Context-Aware Usage
Claude automatically suggests relevant skills based on your current task:
Skills appear as suggestions during conversations
Claude may offer to use a skill when appropriate
You can accept or decline skill suggestions
Explicit Invocation
Reference skills directly in your requests:
Using the API Documentation skill, explain this endpoint...
Best Practices
1. Understand Skill Capabilities
Before using a skill:
Read its documentation
Check the examples provided
Understand its limitations
2. Provide Clear Context
Help Claude use skills effectively:
Be specific about your needs
Provide relevant context
Mention the skill name if needed
3. Combine Skills
Skills work together:
Use multiple skills in one workflow
Claude can coordinate between skills
Skills complement each other's capabilities
Common Workflows
Code Generation
Claude, use the React Component skill to create a form with
email and password fields, with proper validation.
Documentation
Generate API documentation for this function using the
Doc Generator skill.
Testing
Help me write unit tests for this component using the
Test Helper skill.
Skill Settings
Some skills offer configuration options:
Access settings from the skill detail page
Customize behavior and preferences
Set default options for frequently used features
Getting Help
Each skill includes:
Built-in documentation
Usage examples
Support contact information
Pro Tips
1. Explore Skills Regularly: New skills are added frequently
2. Read Reviews: Learn from other users' experiences
3. Provide Feedback: Help improve skills by sharing your experience
4. Stay Updated: Keep skills updated for best performance
Need More Help?
Check [Troubleshooting](/help/troubleshooting) for common issues
Review [What are Claude Skills?](/help/what-are-claude-skills) for basics
Browse the [Marketplace](/marketplace) for new skills