Command Development for Claude Code

Note: The .claude/commands/ directory is a legacy format. For new skills, use the .claude/skills/<name>/SKILL.md directory format. Both are loaded identically — the only difference is file layout. See the skill-development skill for the preferred format.

Overview

Slash commands are frequently-used prompts defined as Markdown files that Claude executes during interactive sessions. Understanding command structure, frontmatter options, and dynamic features enables creating powerful, reusable workflows.

Key concepts:

• Markdown file format for commands
• YAML frontmatter for configuration
• Dynamic arguments and file references
• Bash execution for context
• Command organization and namespacing

Command Basics

What is a Slash Command?