This skill should be used when the user asks to "create a slash command", "add a command", "write a custom command", "define command arguments", "use command frontmatter", "organize commands", "create command with file references", "interactive command", "use AskUserQuestion in command", or needs guidance on slash command structure, YAML frontmatter fields, dynamic arguments, bash execution in commands, user interaction patterns, or command development best practices for Gemini CLI.
Note: The
.claude/commands/directory is a legacy format. For new skills, use the.gemini/skills/<name>/SKILL.mddirectory format. Both are loaded identically — the only difference is file layout. See theskill-developmentskill for the preferred format.
Slash commands are frequently-used prompts defined as Markdown files that Gemini executes during interactive sessions. Understanding command structure, frontmatter options, and dynamic features enables creating powerful, reusable workflows.
Key concepts:
A slash command is a Markdown file containing a prompt that Gemini executes when invoked. Commands provide:
Commands are written for agent consumption, not human consumption.
When a user invokes /command-name, the command content becomes Gemini's instructions. Write commands as directives TO Gemini about what to do, not as messages TO the user.
Correct approach (instructions for Gemini):
Review this code for security vulnerabilities including:
- SQL injection
- XSS attacks
- Authentication issues
Provide specific line numbers and severity ratings.
Incorrect approach (messages to user):
This command will review your code for security issues.
You'll receive a report with vulnerability details.
The first example tells Claude what to do. The second tells the user what will happen but doesn't instruct Gemini. Always use the first approach.
Project commands (shared with team):
.claude/commands//helpPersonal commands (available everywhere):
~/.gemini/commands//helpPlugin commands (bundled with plugins):
plugin-name/commands//helpCommands are Markdown files with .md extension:
.claude/commands/
├── review.md # /review command
├── test.md # /test command
└── deploy.md # /deploy command
Simple command:
Review this code for security vulnerabilities including:
- SQL injection
- XSS attacks
- Authentication bypass
- Insecure data handling
No frontmatter needed for basic commands.
Add configuration using YAML frontmatter:
---