Write effective Reia skill instructions
How to write skill instructions that help Reia follow a repeatable workflow.
Written By Reia
Last updated About 2 months ago
Skill instructions work best when they read like a compact operating standard. Tell Reia when to use the skill, what sources matter, what steps to follow, what output shape you want, and when to ask for clarification before proceeding.
Start with setup
Every skill starts with a small setup section. Use a lowercase hyphenated name, such as rent-roll-review or investment-memo.
For example, an investment memo skill might use name: investment-memo and description: Use this when drafting or revising an investment memo.
The description should say what the skill does and when Reia should use it. Write the workflow instructions below the setup section.
Write the workflow
Prefer direct instructions over broad preferences. For example, say "Compare rent roll totals to the T-12 before recommending assumption changes" instead of "Be thorough." Name the source material, review checks, final output, and any team standard that should stay stable across deals.
Use short headings when they help Reia and the next reviewer scan the workflow:
- Goal
- Sources
- Steps
- Output
- Review standard
- Examples
- Ask first when
Examples are useful when the format matters. A short example can show the tone, table shape, memo section, or diligence-question style you expect. Keep examples consistent with the instructions so Reia has one clear standard to follow.
Keep the skill focused enough that Reia can decide when it applies. If one document mixes rent-roll review, IC memo style, debt sizing, and closing logistics, split it into smaller skills.