Episode 6: Core Differences (4) - Workflows and Skills Standards

⏱ Est. reading time: 3 min Updated on 5/7/2026

Slash commands (like /gsd-quick) serve as efficient contracts between the user and the Agent. Each of the three tools has its own style for defining these commands.

1. Workflows / Slash Commands Comparison

Dimension Claude Code Gemini CLI Antigravity
File Format Markdown + YAML TOML (Structured) Pure Markdown
Concept Reusable Prompt Structured Command Template Step-by-step Recipe
Path Example .claude/commands/ .gemini/commands/ .agents/workflows/
  • Gemini CLI's Unique Choice: It uses the TOML format. While it may have a slightly higher reading cost for humans, it provides the most rigorous structured definition, making it ideal for commands with complex parameters.
  • Antigravity's Simplicity: It treats a Workflow as a "recipe." You simply write down Step 1, Step 2, etc., in Markdown, and the Agent executes them sequentially.

2. Skills: Atomic Capabilities of the Agent

While all three claim to support the Agent Skills Open Standard, their implementations vary:

  • Claude Code: Uses Anthropic's proprietary format, deeply integrated with plugin.json.
  • Gemini CLI & Antigravity: Support the latest Agent Skills Open Standard v1.2. This means complex Skill directories can be copied and used almost seamlessly between these two tools.

💡 Core Logic

  • Commands (Workflows) are designed to simplify input (shortening a 100-line prompt into a single word).
  • Skills are designed to enhance capabilities (providing the Agent with specific code logic or tool combinations).

Regardless of the approach, the goal is the same: transforming the AI from a generalist into a specialist.