subagent-creator
Guide for creating AI subagents with isolated context for complex multi-step workflows. Use when users want to create a subagent, specialized agent, verifier, debugger, or orchestrator that requires isolated context and deep specialization. Works with any agent that supports subagent delegation. Tri
By tech-leads-club · 797 installs
npx skills add tech-leads-club/agent-skills --skill subagent-creator
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Subagent Creator
This skill provides guidance for creating effective, agent agnostic subagents.
What are Subagents?
Subagents are specialized assistants that an AI agent can delegate tasks to. Characteristics:
Isolated context : Each subagent has its own context window
Parallel execution : Multiple subagents can run simultaneously
Specialization : Configured with specific prompts and expertise
Reusable : Defined once, used in multiple contexts
When to Use Subagents vs Skills
Use Subagents for:
Complex workflows requiring isolated context
Long running tasks that benefit from specialization
Verification and auditing (independent perspective)
Parallel workstreams
Use Skills for:
Quick, one off actions
Domain knowledge without context isolation
Reusable procedures that don't need isolation
Subagent Structure
A subagent is typically a markdown file with frontmatter metadata:
Subagent Creation Process
1. Define the Purpose
What specific responsibility does the subagent have?
Why does it need isolated context?
Does it involve multiple complex steps?
Does it require deep specialization?
2. Configure the Metadata
name (required)
Unique identifier. Use kebab case.
description (critical)
CRITICAL for automatic delegation. Explains when to use this subagent.
Good descriptions:
"Security specialist. Use when implementing auth, payments, or handling sensitive data."
"Debugging specialist for errors and test failures. Use when encountering issues."
"Validates completed work. Use after tasks are marked done."
Phrases that encourage automatic delegation:
"Use proactively when..."
"Always use for..."
"Automatically delegate when..."
model (optional)
readonly (optional)
3. Write the Subagent Prompt
Define:
1. Identity : "You are an [expert]..."
2. When invoked : Context of use
3. Process : Specific steps to follow
4. Expected output : Format and content
Template:
Common Subagent Patterns
1. Verification Agent
Purpose : Independently validates that completed work actually works.
2. Debugger
Purpose : Expert in root cause analysis.
3. Security Auditor
Purpose : Security expert auditing code.
4. Code Reviewer
Purpose : Code review with focus on quality.
Best Practices
✅ DO
Write focused subagents : One clear responsibility
Invest in the description : Determines when to delegate
Keep prompts concise : Direct and specific
Share with team : Version control subagent definitions
Test the description : Check correct subagent is triggered
❌ AVOID
Vague descriptions : "Use for general tasks" gives no signal
Prompts too long : 2000 words don't make it smarter
Too many subagents : Start with 2 3 focused ones
Quality Checklist
Before finalizing:
[ ] Description is specific about when to delegate
[ ] Name uses kebab case
[ ] One clear responsibility (not generic)
[ ] Prompt is concise but complete
[ ] Instructions are actionable
[ ] Output format is well defined
[ ] Model configuration appropriate
Output Messages
When creating a subagent: