Agent skill · writing content · aiskillstore
managing-project-rules
Creates and updates modular project rules for Claude Code in .claude/rules/ directory. Use when creating, updating, or modifying rule files, organizing project guidelines, setting up code standards, or when user mentions "create rules", "update rules", "add rules", or "rule configuration".
Why this skill is useful
Provides structured guidelines for creating and updating project rules that the AI wouldn't reliably generate on its own.
What it needs
About 1k tokens when loaded. Last updated 2026-08-07. 405 stars on the source repository.
What this skill does
Goal: Create and maintain focused, well-organized rule files in .claude/rules/ following Claude Code best practices. IMPORTANT: Rules should be concise, focused, and organized by topic. Follow the reference documentation structure. Workflow Phase 1: Assessment Read reference documentation at references/project-rules-docs.md Analyze existing rules in .claude/rules/ to understand patterns Check if rule file exists (update vs create) Determine rule scope (general vs path-specific) Identify appropriate filename and organization Phase 2: Configuration For updates: read existing file and preserve structure Define rule topic and scope clearly Structure content with clear sections and lists Apply YAML frontmatter for path-specific rules Keep content focused on one topic Phase 3: Implementation Create new or update existing rule file in .claude/rules/ Use subdirectories for better organization if needed Validate frontmatter syntax for path-specific rules Report completion with file location, scope, and changes made Rules One topic per rule file (code-style, testing, security) Use descriptive filenames (kebab-case) Path-specific frontmatter only when truly needed For updates: extend sections, remove duplicates, preserve existing content Consult user before major structural changes Acceptance Criteria Rule file created or updated in .claude/rules/ directory Content is focused and well-organized YAML frontmatter valid for path-specific rules Filename is descriptive and follows kebab-case No conflicts with existing rules Report includes file location, scope, and summary of changes
How to use it
Reference it in AdaL, Claude Code, Cursor or any coding agent — nothing to install:
@skills aiskillstore/managing-project-rules