Skill not working? Easy fixes
The common reasons a skill does not run, and the quick fix for each.
Most skill problems have a small cause and a quick fix. Check that the skill is switched on, that code execution is on, and that your request matches what the skill is for. If it still will not run, upload the .zip again and start a fresh chat.
Check it is switched on
Go to Customize › Skills and look for the skill. If its toggle is off, switch it on and start a new chat.
Check code execution is on
Skills need code execution. In Claude, go to Settings › Capabilities and switch on “Code execution and file creation”.
Check your plan
Skills work on every Claude plan, Free included. On Team or Enterprise, an Owner must allow Skills and code execution in Organization settings (on by default for Team).
Check your request
Ask for the job in plain words. If the skill is for resumes, ask it to help with a resume, not a tax return.
Still stuck
Remove the skill, upload the .zip again and start a new chat. That clears most leftover problems. The step-by-step guide shows every click.
Questions
Why did the skill stop working after an update?
An update can switch a skill off. Go to Customize › Skills, find the skill and toggle it back on.
How do I know the skill is the problem?
Ask for the same job without the skill. If the answer is fine, the skill needs a small check.