Skill vs Workflow: What's the Difference?

# Skill vs Workflow: What's the Difference? Two of the most useful concepts in the AI tools world are skills and workflows. They're related but distinct, and understanding the difference helps you use AI more effectively. ## What is a skill? A skill is a reusable building block — a specific capability or prompt template that helps you do one thing well. Think of it like a tool in a toolbox. Examples of skills: - A prompt template for writing SEO content briefs - A template for generating meeting summaries - A code review checklist generator Skills are focused, specific, and designed to be used repeatedly. ## What is a workflow? A workflow is a sequence of steps that uses multiple skills (and tools) to complete a larger task. Think of it like a recipe that uses multiple tools. Examples of workflows: - Turn a product idea into a PRD (uses: brainstorming, PRD template, review) - Create an SEO article from a keyword (uses: research, brief template, writing, editing) - Run competitor research (uses: search, analysis template, synthesis) ## When to use each Use a **skill** when you have a specific, repeatable task that needs to be done well. Use a **workflow** when you have a complex goal that requires multiple steps and tools. Many workflows are built from skills — a workflow might use a meeting summary skill as one of its steps.