From one good workflow to a reusable skill
🔁Notice repetitionThe same method, checks or structure keeps returning.
🧩Create the skillStore the stable method and describe when it applies.
🧭Cowork matches itThe description helps Cowork select the right skill.
✅Review the resultImprove the skill when the workflow—not the one task—needs fixing.
What a custom skill adds
A clear use case
The description tells Cowork when to load the skill. “Creates a weekly leadership update from approved project sources” routes more reliably than “helps with reports.”
A repeatable procedure
The instructions can define the output sections, review sequence, evidence rules, quality standard and actions that must wait for approval.
Supporting material
Companion files can hold a detailed rubric, example or reference material so the core procedure remains readable.
Choose the right reusable feature
Choose
When it fits
What is reused
Normal Cowork request
The task is one-off or the method changes substantially each time.
Nothing beyond the current conversation.
Cowork Skill
Cowork should follow the same method across many different tasks.
Instructions, standards, checks and supporting files.
Scheduled task
The same work should run automatically at a time or after an event.
The task plus its timing or trigger.
Custom agent
People need a dedicated assistant with its own knowledge, role or business actions.
A broader assistant experience beyond one Cowork method.
Create and test the skill
Open CustomizeIn Cowork, open Customize, choose Skills and select Add, then Create new.
Describe the scenarioName the work, the expected inputs and the finished output.
Define the methodExplain the stable steps, checks, format and approval points.
Test real variationsTry more than one project or input set before sharing the skill.
Example: Executive Weekly Update
Create a Cowork skill called Executive Weekly Update. It should use the latest approved project information and produce a one-page update with Progress, Decisions, Risks, Next Week and Leadership Help Needed. Every red or amber risk must cite its supporting source. The skill may draft the update, but it must never send or share it without approval.
Key insight
A skill makes a method consistent. It does not add data access, permissions or a new connection to another service.