How to Install Skills in Gemini CLI

Skills turn Gemini CLI into a repeatable workflow engine. The install process should be fast, predictable, and verifiable. This guide walks through prerequisites, two installation methods, and the checks you should run before using a skill in real work.

Prerequisites

Before installing skills, confirm the basics:

• You have a working Gemini CLI environment.
• You can write to your local skills directory.
• You trust the source of the skill.
• You follow a consistent folder structure across the team.

A shared structure prevents duplicate installs and broken paths.

Method 1: Manual Install

Manual install gives full visibility and control.

1. Locate the skill source

   • Use a trusted repository or official listing.
   • Avoid unverified links.

2. Prepare the directory

   • Create or select a dedicated skills/ folder.
   • Keep skills separate from project code.

3. Copy the files

   • Make sure the SKILL.md file exists at the root.
   • Preserve any scripts or templates.

4. Register the skill

   • Add it to the Gemini CLI registry.
   • Confirm it appears in the available list.

Manual install takes longer, but it reduces surprises.

Method 2: One-Click Install

One-click install is optimized for speed:

• Select the skill from a listing or marketplace.
• Gemini CLI downloads the skill into your configured directory.
• The system validates and registers the skill.

Even with one-click, complete a verification step.

Verification Checklist

Before you rely on a skill, confirm:

• The skill appears in your list of available skills.
• The SKILL.md file is complete and readable.
• Any referenced scripts run without errors.
• A test run succeeds without touching production files.

These checks prevent silent failures later.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Skill not listed: check registration and folder naming.
• Missing scripts: confirm the repository contains all references.
• Permission errors: validate write access to the skills directory.
• Conflicting versions: remove older installs and reinstall cleanly.

Most issues come from incomplete folders or incorrect paths.

Team Best Practices

If multiple people install skills, align on a shared standard:

• Use consistent skill folder names.
• Maintain an approved skills list with versions.
• Document updates and breaking changes.
• Review new skills before team-wide rollout.

This prevents fragmentation across the team.

Post-Install Quality Checks

After installation, run a quick quality pass:

• Open the SKILL.md and confirm the workflow is complete.
• Scan for risky commands or unexpected scope.
• Run a small test task on non-critical files.
• Record the install in a simple log for auditing.

These checks catch issues before they reach production work.

Conclusion

Installing skills in Gemini CLI is straightforward when you treat skills like structured dependencies. Choose trusted sources, install cleanly, and verify the result. A little discipline makes your automation faster and more reliable.

Once the process is stable, you can expand your library with confidence.