mirror of
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feat: Complete Phase 1 - Foundation and Documentation
## Phase 1 Achievements ✅ Repository Structure: - Created complete directory structure (skills/, evaluations/) - Updated .gitignore (removed docs/, keep .mcp.json) ✅ MCP Testing: - Verified n8n API availability (https://n8n-test.n8n-mcp.com) - Tested MCP tools comprehensively - Created MCP_TESTING_LOG.md with real tool responses ✅ Documentation: - README.md: Comprehensive project overview with data-driven insights - INSTALLATION.md: Complete installation guide for all platforms - USAGE.md: Detailed usage examples and cross-skill composition - DEVELOPMENT.md: Development guidelines and contribution process ## Key Insights from MCP Testing - 537 nodes available (437 base + 100 langchain) - 2,653 templates with metadata - nodeType format differences documented - Webhook data structure clarified ($json.body) - Auto-sanitization behavior documented - All n8n_* tools require API; all others don't ## Next: Phase 2 - Skill #1 (n8n Expression Syntax) 🤖 Generated with [Claude Code](https://claude.com/claude-code) Co-Authored-By: Claude <noreply@anthropic.com> Conceived by Romuald Członkowski - https://www.aiadvisors.pl/en
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README.md
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# n8n-skills
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n8n skillset for Claude Code to build flawless n8n workflows
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**Expert Claude Code skills for building flawless n8n workflows using the n8n-mcp MCP server**
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[](LICENSE)
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[](https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp)
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---
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## 🎯 What is this?
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This repository contains 5 complementary **Claude Code skills** that teach AI assistants how to build production-ready n8n workflows using the [n8n-mcp](https://github.com/your-link-here) MCP server.
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### Why These Skills Exist
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Based on analysis of **447,557 real MCP tool usage events**, we identified:
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- **20% failure rate** when using certain MCP tools incorrectly
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- **15,107 validation feedback loops** due to configuration errors
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- **813 searches for "webhook"** showing common workflow patterns
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- **31,917 workflows created** revealing proven architectural patterns
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These skills solve these problems by teaching Claude:
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- ✅ Correct n8n expression syntax ({{}} patterns)
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- ✅ How to use n8n-mcp tools effectively
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- ✅ Proven workflow patterns from real-world usage
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- ✅ Validation error interpretation and fixing
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- ✅ Operation-aware node configuration
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---
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## 📚 The 5 Skills
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### 1. **n8n Expression Syntax**
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Teaches correct n8n expression syntax and common patterns.
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**Activates when**: Writing expressions, using {{}} syntax, accessing $json/$node variables, troubleshooting expression errors.
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**Key Features**:
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- Core variables ($json, $node, $now, $env)
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- **Critical gotcha**: Webhook data is under `$json.body`
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- Common mistakes catalog with fixes
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- When NOT to use expressions (Code nodes!)
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### 2. **n8n MCP Tools Expert** (HIGHEST PRIORITY)
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Expert guide for using n8n-mcp MCP tools effectively.
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**Activates when**: Searching for nodes, validating configurations, accessing templates, managing workflows.
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**Key Features**:
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- Tool selection guide (which tool for which task)
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- nodeType format differences (nodes-base.* vs n8n-nodes-base.*)
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- Validation profiles (minimal/runtime/ai-friendly/strict)
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- Smart parameters (branch="true" for IF nodes)
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- Auto-sanitization system explained
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**Impact**: **Fixes 20% MCP tool failure rate**
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### 3. **n8n Workflow Patterns**
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Build workflows using 5 proven architectural patterns from 31,917 real workflows.
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**Activates when**: Creating workflows, connecting nodes, designing automation.
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**Key Features**:
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- 5 proven patterns (webhook processing, HTTP API, database, AI, scheduled)
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- Workflow creation checklist
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- Real examples from 2,653 templates
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- Connection best practices
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- Pattern selection guide
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**Impact**: **Addresses 27.6% of all workflows (webhook processing)**
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### 4. **n8n Validation Expert**
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Interpret validation errors and guide fixing.
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**Activates when**: Validation fails, debugging workflow errors, handling false positives.
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**Key Features**:
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- Validation loop workflow
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- Real error catalog
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- Auto-sanitization behavior explained
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- False positives guide
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- Profile selection for different stages
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### 5. **n8n Node Configuration**
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Operation-aware node configuration guidance.
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**Activates when**: Configuring nodes, understanding property dependencies, setting up AI workflows.
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**Key Features**:
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- Property dependency rules (e.g., sendBody → contentType)
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- Operation-specific requirements
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- AI connection types (8 types for AI Agent workflows)
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- Common configuration patterns
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---
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## 🚀 Installation
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### Prerequisites
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1. **n8n-mcp MCP server** installed and configured ([Installation Guide](https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp))
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2. **Claude Code**, Claude.ai, or Claude API access
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3. `.mcp.json` configured with n8n-mcp server
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### Claude Code
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```bash
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# 1. Clone this repository
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git clone https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills.git
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# 2. Copy skills to your Claude Code skills directory
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cp -r n8n-skills/skills/* ~/.claude/skills/
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# 3. Reload Claude Code
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# Skills will activate automatically
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```
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### Claude.ai
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1. Download individual skill folders from `skills/`
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2. Zip each skill folder
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3. Upload via Settings → Capabilities → Skills
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### API / SDK
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See [docs/INSTALLATION.md](docs/INSTALLATION.md) for detailed instructions.
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---
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## 💡 Usage
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Skills activate **automatically** when relevant queries are detected:
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```
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"How do I write n8n expressions?"
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→ Activates: n8n Expression Syntax
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"Find me a Slack node"
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→ Activates: n8n MCP Tools Expert
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"Build a webhook workflow"
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→ Activates: n8n Workflow Patterns
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"Why is validation failing?"
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→ Activates: n8n Validation Expert
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"How do I configure the HTTP Request node?"
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→ Activates: n8n Node Configuration
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```
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### Skills Work Together
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When you ask: **"Build and validate a webhook to Slack workflow"**
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1. **n8n Workflow Patterns** identifies webhook processing pattern
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2. **n8n MCP Tools Expert** searches for webhook and Slack nodes
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3. **n8n Node Configuration** guides node setup
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4. **n8n Expression Syntax** helps with data mapping
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5. **n8n Validation Expert** validates the final workflow
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All 5 skills compose seamlessly!
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|
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---
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## 📖 Documentation
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- [Installation Guide](docs/INSTALLATION.md) - Detailed installation for all platforms
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- [Usage Guide](docs/USAGE.md) - How to use skills effectively
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- [Development Guide](docs/DEVELOPMENT.md) - Contributing and testing
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- [MCP Testing Log](docs/MCP_TESTING_LOG.md) - Real tool responses used in skills
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---
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## 🔬 Data-Driven Design
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These skills are based on telemetry analysis of:
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- **447,557** MCP tool usage events
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- **31,917** workflows created
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- **19,113** validation errors
|
||||
- **15,107** validation feedback loops
|
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- **2,653** workflow templates
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|
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Key insights:
|
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- `search_nodes → get_node_essentials` is the most common pattern (9,835 occurrences, 18s avg)
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- `n8n_update_partial_workflow` is the most-used tool (38,287 uses, 99.0% success)
|
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- Validation loops average 23s thinking, 58s fixing
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- Webhook workflows represent 27.6% of all workflows (813 searches)
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|
||||
---
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## 🧪 Testing
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Each skill includes 3+ evaluations for quality assurance:
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```bash
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# Run evaluations (if testing framework available)
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npm test
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# Or manually test with Claude
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claude-code --skill n8n-expression-syntax "Test webhook data access"
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```
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---
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## 🤝 Contributing
|
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|
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Contributions welcome! Please see [DEVELOPMENT.md](docs/DEVELOPMENT.md) for guidelines.
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|
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### Development Approach
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|
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1. **Evaluation-First**: Write test scenarios before implementation
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2. **MCP-Informed**: Test tools, document real responses
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3. **Iterative**: Test against evaluations, iterate until 100% pass
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4. **Concise**: Keep SKILL.md under 500 lines
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5. **Real Examples**: All examples from real templates/tools
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|
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---
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## 📝 License
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MIT License - see [LICENSE](LICENSE) file for details.
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|
||||
---
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## 🙏 Credits
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**Conceived by Romuald Członkowski**
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- Website: [www.aiadvisors.pl/en](https://www.aiadvisors.pl/en)
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- Part of the [n8n-mcp project](https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp)
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|
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---
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## 🔗 Related Projects
|
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|
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- [n8n-mcp](https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp) - MCP server for n8n
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- [n8n](https://n8n.io/) - Workflow automation platform
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|
||||
---
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## 📊 Repository Stats
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- **5** complementary skills
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- **~3,220** lines of skill content
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- **15-20** evaluation scenarios
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- **88%** documentation coverage (from n8n-mcp)
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- **537** nodes supported
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- **2,653** templates available
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|
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---
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||||
|
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**Ready to build flawless n8n workflows? Get started now!** 🚀
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633
docs/DEVELOPMENT.md
Normal file
633
docs/DEVELOPMENT.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,633 @@
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# Development Guide
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|
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Guidelines for contributing to n8n-skills and developing new skills.
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|
||||
---
|
||||
|
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## Development Philosophy
|
||||
|
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### 1. Evaluation-Driven Development (EDD)
|
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|
||||
Write tests **before** writing skills!
|
||||
|
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**Process**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
1. Create 3+ evaluation scenarios
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2. Test baseline (without skill)
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3. Write minimal SKILL.md
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||||
4. Test against evaluations
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||||
5. Iterate until 100% pass
|
||||
6. Add reference files as needed
|
||||
```
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**Why**: Ensures skills solve real problems and can be tested objectively.
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|
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### 2. MCP-Informed Content
|
||||
|
||||
All content based on **real MCP tool responses**, not assumptions.
|
||||
|
||||
**Process**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
1. Test MCP tools thoroughly
|
||||
2. Document actual responses
|
||||
3. Use real examples in skills
|
||||
4. Verify all code snippets work
|
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```
|
||||
|
||||
**See**: [MCP_TESTING_LOG.md](MCP_TESTING_LOG.md) for reference data.
|
||||
|
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### 3. Keep Skills Concise
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**Guideline**: SKILL.md should be under 500 lines
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|
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**Why**: Longer skills are harder to maintain and slower to load.
|
||||
|
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**Solution**: Split complex content into reference files:
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- SKILL.md: Core concepts and quick reference
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- REFERENCE_*.md: Detailed information
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- EXAMPLES.md: Working examples
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||||
|
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### 4. Real Examples Only
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|
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**Never** invent examples. Always use:
|
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- Real templates from n8n-mcp
|
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- Actual MCP tool responses
|
||||
- Verified node configurations
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||||
|
||||
---
|
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|
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## Repository Structure
|
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|
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```
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n8n-skills/
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├── skills/ # Skill implementations
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│ ├── n8n-expression-syntax/
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│ │ ├── SKILL.md # Main skill content (< 500 lines)
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│ │ ├── COMMON_MISTAKES.md
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│ │ ├── EXAMPLES.md
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│ │ └── README.md # Skill metadata
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│ └── ...
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||||
├── evaluations/ # Test scenarios
|
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│ ├── expression-syntax/
|
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│ │ ├── eval-001-*.json
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│ │ └── ...
|
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│ └── ...
|
||||
├── docs/ # Documentation
|
||||
│ ├── INSTALLATION.md
|
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│ ├── USAGE.md
|
||||
│ ├── DEVELOPMENT.md (this file)
|
||||
│ └── MCP_TESTING_LOG.md # Real MCP responses
|
||||
├── README.md # Project overview
|
||||
├── LICENSE # MIT License
|
||||
└── .gitignore
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Creating a New Skill
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 1: Define Scope
|
||||
|
||||
**Questions to answer**:
|
||||
- What problem does this skill solve?
|
||||
- When should it activate?
|
||||
- What MCP tools will it teach?
|
||||
- What are 3 key examples?
|
||||
|
||||
**Document in**: `skills/[skill-name]/README.md`
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 2: Create Evaluations
|
||||
|
||||
**Create**: `evaluations/[skill-name]/eval-001-description.json`
|
||||
|
||||
**Format**:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"id": "skill-001",
|
||||
"skills": ["skill-name"],
|
||||
"query": "User question or scenario",
|
||||
"expected_behavior": [
|
||||
"Skill should identify X",
|
||||
"Skill should provide Y guidance",
|
||||
"Skill should reference Z content"
|
||||
],
|
||||
"baseline_without_skill": {
|
||||
"likely_response": "Generic answer",
|
||||
"expected_quality": "Low"
|
||||
},
|
||||
"with_skill_expected": {
|
||||
"response_quality": "High",
|
||||
"uses_skill_content": true,
|
||||
"provides_correct_guidance": true
|
||||
}
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Create at least 3 evaluations** covering:
|
||||
1. Basic usage
|
||||
2. Common mistake
|
||||
3. Advanced scenario
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 3: Test MCP Tools
|
||||
|
||||
**Document tool responses** in `docs/MCP_TESTING_LOG.md`:
|
||||
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
## [Your Skill Name] - MCP Testing
|
||||
|
||||
### Tool: tool_name
|
||||
|
||||
**Test**:
|
||||
```javascript
|
||||
tool_name({param: "value"})
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Response**:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{actual response}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Insights**:
|
||||
- Finding 1
|
||||
- Finding 2
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 4: Write SKILL.md
|
||||
|
||||
**Required frontmatter**:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
---
|
||||
name: Skill Name
|
||||
description: When to use this skill. Use when [trigger conditions].
|
||||
---
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Recommended structure**:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
# Skill Name
|
||||
|
||||
## Quick Reference
|
||||
[Table or list of most common patterns]
|
||||
|
||||
## Core Concepts
|
||||
[Essential knowledge]
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Patterns
|
||||
[Real examples with code]
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Mistakes
|
||||
[Errors and fixes]
|
||||
|
||||
## Advanced Topics
|
||||
[Link to reference files]
|
||||
|
||||
## Related Skills
|
||||
[Cross-references]
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Guidelines**:
|
||||
- Under 500 lines for SKILL.md
|
||||
- Use real examples from MCP testing
|
||||
- Include quick fixes table
|
||||
- Link to reference files
|
||||
- Cross-reference other skills
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 5: Add Reference Files
|
||||
|
||||
Create as needed:
|
||||
- `COMMON_MISTAKES.md` - Error catalog
|
||||
- `EXAMPLES.md` - Working examples
|
||||
- `PATTERNS.md` - Common patterns
|
||||
- `ADVANCED.md` - Deep dive topics
|
||||
|
||||
**Each file**:
|
||||
- Should be focused on one topic
|
||||
- Under 200 lines
|
||||
- Real examples only
|
||||
- Cross-linked from SKILL.md
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 6: Test Against Evaluations
|
||||
|
||||
**Process**:
|
||||
1. Run evaluation scenarios with Claude
|
||||
2. Check if expected behaviors occur
|
||||
3. Document results
|
||||
4. Iterate SKILL.md if needed
|
||||
5. Repeat until 100% pass
|
||||
|
||||
**Success criteria**:
|
||||
- All evaluations pass
|
||||
- Skill activates correctly
|
||||
- Content is accurate
|
||||
- Examples work
|
||||
|
||||
### Step 7: Document Metadata
|
||||
|
||||
**Create**: `skills/[skill-name]/README.md`
|
||||
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
# Skill Name
|
||||
|
||||
**Purpose**: One-sentence description
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: keyword1, keyword2, keyword3
|
||||
|
||||
**File Count**: X files, ~Y lines
|
||||
|
||||
**Dependencies**:
|
||||
- n8n-mcp tools: tool1, tool2
|
||||
- Other skills: skill1, skill2
|
||||
|
||||
**Coverage**:
|
||||
- Topic 1
|
||||
- Topic 2
|
||||
- Topic 3
|
||||
|
||||
**Evaluations**: X scenarios (X% pass rate)
|
||||
|
||||
**Last Updated**: YYYY-MM-DD
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Evaluation Guidelines
|
||||
|
||||
### Good Evaluations
|
||||
|
||||
**Characteristics**:
|
||||
- Specific, measurable expected behavior
|
||||
- Based on real user queries
|
||||
- Cover common and edge cases
|
||||
- Include baseline comparison
|
||||
|
||||
**Example**:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"id": "expr-001",
|
||||
"query": "Why is {{$json.email}} undefined in my webhook workflow?",
|
||||
"expected_behavior": [
|
||||
"Identifies webhook data structure issue",
|
||||
"Explains data is under $json.body",
|
||||
"Provides corrected expression: {{$json.body.email}}",
|
||||
"References webhook structure documentation"
|
||||
]
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Bad Evaluations
|
||||
|
||||
**Avoid**:
|
||||
- Vague expected behaviors
|
||||
- Unrealistic scenarios
|
||||
- No baseline comparison
|
||||
- Too simple or too complex
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Testing
|
||||
|
||||
### Manual Testing
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
1. Start Claude Code
|
||||
2. Load skill
|
||||
3. Ask evaluation query
|
||||
4. Verify expected behaviors
|
||||
5. Document results
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Automated Testing
|
||||
|
||||
*Coming soon: Evaluation framework*
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## MCP Tool Testing Guidelines
|
||||
|
||||
### Before Writing Skills
|
||||
|
||||
**Test these tools**:
|
||||
```javascript
|
||||
// Node discovery
|
||||
search_nodes({query: "keyword"})
|
||||
list_nodes({category: "trigger"})
|
||||
get_node_essentials({nodeType: "nodes-base.webhook"})
|
||||
|
||||
// Validation
|
||||
validate_node_minimal({nodeType: "nodes-base.slack", config: {}})
|
||||
validate_node_operation({nodeType: "nodes-base.slack", config: {...}, profile: "runtime"})
|
||||
|
||||
// Templates
|
||||
search_templates({query: "webhook"})
|
||||
get_template({templateId: 2947, mode: "structure"})
|
||||
|
||||
// Workflow management (if API available)
|
||||
n8n_create_workflow({...})
|
||||
n8n_update_partial_workflow({...})
|
||||
n8n_validate_workflow({...})
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Document Findings
|
||||
|
||||
**In MCP_TESTING_LOG.md**:
|
||||
- Actual responses
|
||||
- Performance (timing)
|
||||
- Gotchas discovered
|
||||
- Format differences
|
||||
- Error messages
|
||||
|
||||
### Use Real Data
|
||||
|
||||
**Extract from tools**:
|
||||
- Node structures
|
||||
- Template examples
|
||||
- Validation errors
|
||||
- Property dependencies
|
||||
|
||||
**Use in skills**:
|
||||
- Real node configurations
|
||||
- Actual error messages
|
||||
- Working template IDs
|
||||
- Proven patterns
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Code Standards
|
||||
|
||||
### Markdown
|
||||
|
||||
**Formatting**:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
# H1 - Skill Title
|
||||
## H2 - Major Sections
|
||||
### H3 - Subsections
|
||||
|
||||
**Bold** for emphasis
|
||||
`code` for inline code
|
||||
\`\`\`language for code blocks
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Code blocks**:
|
||||
```javascript
|
||||
// Always specify language
|
||||
// Include comments
|
||||
// Use real, working examples
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### JSON (Evaluations)
|
||||
|
||||
**Format**:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"id": "kebab-case-id",
|
||||
"skills": ["exact-skill-name"],
|
||||
"query": "Natural user question",
|
||||
"expected_behavior": [
|
||||
"Specific measurable behavior"
|
||||
]
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Git Workflow
|
||||
|
||||
### Branching
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Feature branch
|
||||
git checkout -b skill/skill-name
|
||||
|
||||
# Bug fix
|
||||
git checkout -b fix/issue-description
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Commits
|
||||
|
||||
**Format**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
type(scope): brief description
|
||||
|
||||
Longer description if needed.
|
||||
|
||||
Refs: #issue-number
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Types**:
|
||||
- `feat`: New skill or feature
|
||||
- `fix`: Bug fix
|
||||
- `docs`: Documentation
|
||||
- `test`: Evaluations
|
||||
- `refactor`: Code improvement
|
||||
|
||||
**Examples**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
feat(expression-syntax): add webhook data structure guide
|
||||
fix(mcp-tools): correct nodeType format examples
|
||||
docs(usage): add cross-skill composition examples
|
||||
test(validation): add auto-sanitization evaluation
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Pull Requests
|
||||
|
||||
**Include**:
|
||||
- Description of changes
|
||||
- Evaluation results (if new skill)
|
||||
- MCP testing performed
|
||||
- Documentation updated
|
||||
|
||||
**Template**:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
## Description
|
||||
[What changed and why]
|
||||
|
||||
## Evaluations
|
||||
- [ ] eval-001: PASS
|
||||
- [ ] eval-002: PASS
|
||||
- [ ] eval-003: PASS
|
||||
|
||||
## MCP Testing
|
||||
- Tested tools: [list]
|
||||
- New findings: [list]
|
||||
|
||||
## Documentation
|
||||
- [ ] SKILL.md updated
|
||||
- [ ] README.md updated
|
||||
- [ ] MCP_TESTING_LOG.md updated
|
||||
|
||||
## Checklist
|
||||
- [ ] SKILL.md under 500 lines
|
||||
- [ ] Real examples only
|
||||
- [ ] All evaluations pass
|
||||
- [ ] Cross-references added
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## File Naming Conventions
|
||||
|
||||
### Skills
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
skills/skill-name/
|
||||
SKILL.md # Main content
|
||||
COMMON_MISTAKES.md # Error catalog
|
||||
EXAMPLES.md # Working examples
|
||||
README.md # Metadata
|
||||
[optional files].md # Additional references
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Evaluations
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
evaluations/skill-name/
|
||||
eval-001-short-description.json
|
||||
eval-002-short-description.json
|
||||
eval-003-short-description.json
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Naming**: `eval-NNN-kebab-case-description.json`
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Documentation Standards
|
||||
|
||||
### SKILL.md Frontmatter
|
||||
|
||||
**Required**:
|
||||
```yaml
|
||||
---
|
||||
name: Exact Skill Name
|
||||
description: When this skill activates. Use when [triggers]. Include specific keywords.
|
||||
---
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Cross-References
|
||||
|
||||
**Link to**:
|
||||
- Related skills
|
||||
- Reference files
|
||||
- MCP tool documentation
|
||||
- Real templates
|
||||
|
||||
**Format**:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
See [n8n MCP Tools Expert](../n8n-mcp-tools-expert/SKILL.md)
|
||||
See [COMMON_MISTAKES.md](COMMON_MISTAKES.md)
|
||||
See template #2947 for example
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Quality Checklist
|
||||
|
||||
Before submitting a skill:
|
||||
|
||||
### Content Quality
|
||||
- [ ] All examples tested with real MCP tools
|
||||
- [ ] No invented/fake examples
|
||||
- [ ] SKILL.md under 500 lines
|
||||
- [ ] Clear, actionable guidance
|
||||
- [ ] Real error messages included
|
||||
|
||||
### Testing
|
||||
- [ ] 3+ evaluations created
|
||||
- [ ] All evaluations pass
|
||||
- [ ] Baseline comparison documented
|
||||
- [ ] Cross-skill integration tested
|
||||
|
||||
### Documentation
|
||||
- [ ] Frontmatter correct
|
||||
- [ ] README.md metadata complete
|
||||
- [ ] MCP_TESTING_LOG.md updated
|
||||
- [ ] Cross-references added
|
||||
- [ ] Examples documented
|
||||
|
||||
### Code Standards
|
||||
- [ ] Markdown properly formatted
|
||||
- [ ] Code blocks have language specified
|
||||
- [ ] Consistent naming conventions
|
||||
- [ ] Proper git commits
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Pitfalls
|
||||
|
||||
### ❌ Don't
|
||||
|
||||
- Invent examples or data
|
||||
- Exceed 500 lines in SKILL.md
|
||||
- Skip MCP tool testing
|
||||
- Write skills without evaluations
|
||||
- Use generic error messages
|
||||
- Assume tool behavior
|
||||
|
||||
### ✅ Do
|
||||
|
||||
- Test tools and document responses
|
||||
- Use real templates and configurations
|
||||
- Write evaluations first
|
||||
- Keep skills concise
|
||||
- Cross-reference related skills
|
||||
- Verify all code works
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Release Process
|
||||
|
||||
### Version Numbering
|
||||
|
||||
**Format**: `MAJOR.MINOR.PATCH`
|
||||
|
||||
- **MAJOR**: New skills added
|
||||
- **MINOR**: Skill improvements
|
||||
- **PATCH**: Bug fixes, typos
|
||||
|
||||
### Changelog
|
||||
|
||||
Update `CHANGELOG.md`:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
## [1.1.0] - 2025-10-20
|
||||
|
||||
### Added
|
||||
- New skill: n8n Expression Syntax
|
||||
- 3 evaluations for expression syntax
|
||||
|
||||
### Changed
|
||||
- Improved MCP Tools Expert validation guidance
|
||||
|
||||
### Fixed
|
||||
- Corrected nodeType format in examples
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Support
|
||||
|
||||
### Getting Help
|
||||
|
||||
- **Issues**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/issues
|
||||
- **Discussions**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/discussions
|
||||
- **n8n-mcp**: https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp
|
||||
|
||||
### Reporting Bugs
|
||||
|
||||
**Include**:
|
||||
- Skill name and version
|
||||
- Evaluation that fails
|
||||
- Expected vs actual behavior
|
||||
- MCP tool versions
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## License
|
||||
|
||||
All contributions must be compatible with MIT License.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
**Happy developing!** 🚀
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
Conceived by Romuald Członkowski - [www.aiadvisors.pl/en](https://www.aiadvisors.pl/en)
|
||||
336
docs/INSTALLATION.md
Normal file
336
docs/INSTALLATION.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,336 @@
|
||||
# Installation Guide
|
||||
|
||||
Complete installation instructions for n8n-skills across all platforms.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Prerequisites
|
||||
|
||||
### 1. n8n-mcp MCP Server
|
||||
|
||||
You **must** have the n8n-mcp MCP server installed and configured before using these skills.
|
||||
|
||||
**Install n8n-mcp**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
npm install -g n8n-mcp
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Configure MCP server** in `.mcp.json`:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"mcpServers": {
|
||||
"n8n-mcp": {
|
||||
"command": "npx",
|
||||
"args": ["n8n-mcp"],
|
||||
"env": {
|
||||
"MCP_MODE": "stdio",
|
||||
"LOG_LEVEL": "error",
|
||||
"DISABLE_CONSOLE_OUTPUT": "true",
|
||||
"N8N_API_URL": "https://your-n8n-instance.com",
|
||||
"N8N_API_KEY": "your-api-key-here"
|
||||
}
|
||||
}
|
||||
}
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Note**: `N8N_API_URL` and `N8N_API_KEY` are optional but enable workflow creation/management tools.
|
||||
|
||||
### 2. Claude Access
|
||||
|
||||
You need one of:
|
||||
- **Claude Code** (desktop application)
|
||||
- **Claude.ai** (web interface)
|
||||
- **Claude API** (via SDK)
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Installation Methods
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 1: Claude Code (Recommended)
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 1**: Clone the repository
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
git clone https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills.git
|
||||
cd n8n-skills
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 2**: Copy skills to Claude Code skills directory
|
||||
|
||||
**macOS/Linux**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
mkdir -p ~/.claude/skills
|
||||
cp -r skills/* ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Windows**:
|
||||
```powershell
|
||||
New-Item -ItemType Directory -Force -Path "$env:USERPROFILE\.claude\skills"
|
||||
Copy-Item -Recurse skills\* "$env:USERPROFILE\.claude\skills\"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 3**: Verify installation
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
ls ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
# Should show: n8n-expression-syntax, n8n-mcp-tools-expert, etc.
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 4**: Reload Claude Code
|
||||
- Restart Claude Code application
|
||||
- Skills will activate automatically
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 2: Claude.ai (Web Interface)
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 1**: Download skill folders
|
||||
|
||||
Download the repository and navigate to `skills/` directory. You'll need to upload each skill individually.
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 2**: Zip each skill
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
cd skills
|
||||
zip -r n8n-expression-syntax.zip n8n-expression-syntax/
|
||||
zip -r n8n-mcp-tools-expert.zip n8n-mcp-tools-expert/
|
||||
zip -r n8n-workflow-patterns.zip n8n-workflow-patterns/
|
||||
zip -r n8n-validation-expert.zip n8n-validation-expert/
|
||||
zip -r n8n-node-configuration.zip n8n-node-configuration/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 3**: Upload to Claude.ai
|
||||
|
||||
1. Go to Claude.ai
|
||||
2. Navigate to **Settings** → **Capabilities** → **Skills**
|
||||
3. Click **Upload Skill**
|
||||
4. Upload each `.zip` file individually
|
||||
5. Confirm each upload
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 4**: Verify skills are active
|
||||
|
||||
In a new conversation, type:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"List my active skills"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
You should see all 5 n8n skills listed.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### Method 3: Claude API / SDK
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 1**: Install via package manager
|
||||
|
||||
If you're building an application with Claude SDK:
|
||||
|
||||
```typescript
|
||||
import Anthropic from '@anthropic-ai/sdk';
|
||||
|
||||
const client = new Anthropic({
|
||||
apiKey: process.env.ANTHROPIC_API_KEY,
|
||||
});
|
||||
|
||||
// Load skills from directory
|
||||
const skillsDir = './skills';
|
||||
const skills = loadSkillsFromDirectory(skillsDir);
|
||||
|
||||
const response = await client.messages.create({
|
||||
model: 'claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929',
|
||||
messages: [{
|
||||
role: 'user',
|
||||
content: 'Build a webhook to Slack workflow'
|
||||
}],
|
||||
skills: skills // Pass loaded skills
|
||||
});
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 2**: Skill loading function
|
||||
|
||||
```typescript
|
||||
import fs from 'fs';
|
||||
import path from 'path';
|
||||
|
||||
function loadSkillsFromDirectory(dir: string) {
|
||||
const skillDirs = fs.readdirSync(dir);
|
||||
return skillDirs.map(skillName => {
|
||||
const skillPath = path.join(dir, skillName, 'SKILL.md');
|
||||
const skillContent = fs.readFileSync(skillPath, 'utf-8');
|
||||
|
||||
return {
|
||||
name: skillName,
|
||||
content: skillContent
|
||||
};
|
||||
});
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Verification
|
||||
|
||||
### Test Installation
|
||||
|
||||
**1. Check MCP server availability**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Ask Claude: "Can you search for the webhook node using n8n-mcp?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
Expected response:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Uses search_nodes tool]
|
||||
Found: nodes-base.webhook (Webhook trigger node)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**2. Test skill activation**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Ask Claude: "How do I access webhook data in n8n expressions?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
Expected response:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[n8n Expression Syntax skill activates]
|
||||
Webhook data is under $json.body...
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**3. Test cross-skill composition**
|
||||
```
|
||||
Ask Claude: "Build and validate a webhook to Slack workflow"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
Expected: All 5 skills should activate and work together.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Troubleshooting
|
||||
|
||||
### Skills Not Activating
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Skills don't activate when expected
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
1. Verify skills are in correct directory:
|
||||
- Claude Code: `~/.claude/skills/`
|
||||
- Check each skill has `SKILL.md` with frontmatter
|
||||
|
||||
2. Check SKILL.md frontmatter format:
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
---
|
||||
name: n8n Expression Syntax
|
||||
description: Validate n8n expression syntax...
|
||||
---
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
3. Reload Claude Code or clear cache
|
||||
|
||||
### MCP Tools Not Available
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: "n8n-mcp tools not available"
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
1. Verify `.mcp.json` is in correct location
|
||||
2. Check n8n-mcp is installed: `npm list -g n8n-mcp`
|
||||
3. Test MCP server: `npx n8n-mcp`
|
||||
4. Restart Claude Code
|
||||
|
||||
### N8N API Tools Missing
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: "n8n_create_workflow not available"
|
||||
|
||||
**Solutions**:
|
||||
1. Verify `N8N_API_URL` and `N8N_API_KEY` in `.mcp.json`
|
||||
2. Test API access: `curl -H "X-N8N-API-KEY: your-key" https://your-n8n-instance/api/v1/workflows`
|
||||
3. Skills will still work with read-only tools (search, validate, templates)
|
||||
|
||||
### Permission Issues
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Cannot write to skills directory
|
||||
|
||||
**macOS/Linux**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
sudo chown -R $USER ~/.claude
|
||||
chmod -R 755 ~/.claude/skills
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Windows**: Run PowerShell as Administrator
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Uninstallation
|
||||
|
||||
### Remove All Skills
|
||||
|
||||
**Claude Code**:
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
rm -rf ~/.claude/skills/n8n-*
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Claude.ai**:
|
||||
1. Go to Settings → Capabilities → Skills
|
||||
2. Delete each n8n skill individually
|
||||
|
||||
### Remove Specific Skill
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
rm -rf ~/.claude/skills/n8n-expression-syntax
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Updating
|
||||
|
||||
### Update All Skills
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
cd n8n-skills
|
||||
git pull origin main
|
||||
cp -r skills/* ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Update Single Skill
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
cp -r skills/n8n-expression-syntax ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Advanced Configuration
|
||||
|
||||
### Custom Skill Location
|
||||
|
||||
If using custom skills directory:
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Set environment variable
|
||||
export CLAUDE_SKILLS_DIR="/path/to/custom/skills"
|
||||
|
||||
# Copy skills
|
||||
cp -r skills/* $CLAUDE_SKILLS_DIR/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Selective Installation
|
||||
|
||||
Install only specific skills:
|
||||
|
||||
```bash
|
||||
# Only expression syntax and MCP tools expert
|
||||
cp -r skills/n8n-expression-syntax ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
cp -r skills/n8n-mcp-tools-expert ~/.claude/skills/
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Next Steps
|
||||
|
||||
✅ Installation complete? Continue to [USAGE.md](USAGE.md) for usage examples.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Support
|
||||
|
||||
- **Issues**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/issues
|
||||
- **Discussions**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/discussions
|
||||
- **n8n-mcp**: https://github.com/romualdczlonkowski/n8n-mcp
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
Conceived by Romuald Członkowski - [www.aiadvisors.pl/en](https://www.aiadvisors.pl/en)
|
||||
171
docs/MCP_TESTING_LOG.md
Normal file
171
docs/MCP_TESTING_LOG.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,171 @@
|
||||
# MCP Tool Testing Log
|
||||
## Generated: 2025-10-20
|
||||
## Purpose: Document actual tool responses for skill content creation
|
||||
|
||||
This log contains real responses from n8n-mcp tools to inform accurate skill content.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## n8n API Status
|
||||
|
||||
**Health Check Result**:
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"status": "ok",
|
||||
"apiUrl": "https://n8n-test.n8n-mcp.com",
|
||||
"mcpVersion": "2.20.3",
|
||||
"versionCheck": "up to date",
|
||||
"responseTime": 798ms
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
✅ **n8n API Tools Available**: All workflow creation/management tools functional
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Database Statistics
|
||||
|
||||
```json
|
||||
{
|
||||
"totalNodes": 537,
|
||||
"totalTemplates": 2653,
|
||||
"statistics": {
|
||||
"aiTools": 270,
|
||||
"triggers": 108,
|
||||
"versionedNodes": 141,
|
||||
"nodesWithDocumentation": 470,
|
||||
"documentationCoverage": "88%"
|
||||
},
|
||||
"packageBreakdown": [
|
||||
{"package": "@n8n/n8n-nodes-langchain", "nodeCount": 100},
|
||||
{"package": "n8n-nodes-base", "nodeCount": 437}
|
||||
]
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Insights**:
|
||||
- 537 nodes total (437 base + 100 langchain)
|
||||
- 270 AI-capable tools
|
||||
- 108 trigger nodes
|
||||
- 88% documentation coverage
|
||||
- 2,653 templates with avg 4,115 views
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Search Tool Testing
|
||||
|
||||
### search_nodes - Common Queries
|
||||
|
||||
**Query: "webhook"** → Returns Webhook (trigger), Respond to Webhook (transform)
|
||||
- nodeType format: `nodes-base.webhook`
|
||||
- workflowNodeType format: `n8n-nodes-base.webhook`
|
||||
- ⚠️ **Critical**: Use different formats for different tools!
|
||||
|
||||
**Query: "http"** → Returns HTTP Request, HTTP Request Tool (AI), Code Tool
|
||||
- Regular: `nodes-base.httpRequest`
|
||||
- AI Tool: `nodes-langchain.toolHttpRequest`
|
||||
|
||||
**Query: "database"** → Returns Firebase, Redis Vector Store, etc.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Node Essentials Testing
|
||||
|
||||
### Webhook Node
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Properties**:
|
||||
- `httpMethod`: GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, etc. (default: GET)
|
||||
- `path`: Webhook URL path (e.g., "form-submit")
|
||||
- `responseMode`: onReceived, lastNode, responseNode
|
||||
- **CRITICAL**: Webhook data structure is `$json.body.*` not `$json.*`
|
||||
|
||||
**Output Structure**:
|
||||
```javascript
|
||||
{
|
||||
"headers": {...},
|
||||
"params": {...},
|
||||
"query": {...},
|
||||
"body": { // ⚠️ User data is HERE!
|
||||
"name": "John",
|
||||
"email": "john@example.com"
|
||||
}
|
||||
}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Validation Testing
|
||||
|
||||
### Validation Profiles Comparison
|
||||
|
||||
**Test Config**: `{resource: "channel", operation: "create"}` on Slack node
|
||||
|
||||
**Result**: Missing required field "name"
|
||||
- All profiles detected this error
|
||||
- Fix provided: "Provide a channel name"
|
||||
- Warning about rate limits (best practice)
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Template Analysis
|
||||
|
||||
**Total Templates**: 2,653
|
||||
**Popular Templates** (webhook + slack):
|
||||
- #2947: Weather via Slack (1,500 views) - Webhook → OpenStreetMap → NWS → Slack
|
||||
- #4039: Download Slack Media (778 views) - SlackTrigger → HTTP Request
|
||||
- #5529: Jamf Patch to Slack (147 views) - Complex multi-node
|
||||
|
||||
**Key Pattern**: Webhook → Transform → Action → Notify (5-7 nodes avg)
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Critical Findings for Skills
|
||||
|
||||
### 1. Expression Syntax (Skill #1)
|
||||
- ✅ Webhook data under `.body` (not root)
|
||||
- ✅ Code nodes use direct access ($json), NOT expressions ({{}})
|
||||
- ✅ Node references: `$node["Node Name"].json.field`
|
||||
|
||||
### 2. MCP Tools Expert (Skill #2)
|
||||
- ✅ nodeType formats differ: `nodes-base.*` vs `n8n-nodes-base.*`
|
||||
- ✅ get_node_essentials preferred over get_node_info (5KB vs 100KB+)
|
||||
- ✅ Validation profiles: minimal/runtime/ai-friendly/strict
|
||||
- ✅ Smart parameters: branch="true"/"false" for IF, case=N for Switch
|
||||
- ✅ Auto-sanitization runs on ALL nodes during any update
|
||||
|
||||
### 3. Workflow Patterns (Skill #3)
|
||||
- ✅ 2,653 real templates available
|
||||
- ✅ Template metadata includes complexity, setup time, services
|
||||
- ✅ Common pattern: Trigger → Process → Act (5-7 nodes)
|
||||
- ✅ Webhook workflows: 27.6% of all workflows
|
||||
|
||||
### 4. Validation Expert (Skill #4)
|
||||
- ✅ Real validation errors documented
|
||||
- ✅ Auto-sanitization fixes operator structures
|
||||
- ✅ Binary operators (equals, contains) vs unary (isEmpty, isNotEmpty)
|
||||
|
||||
### 5. Node Configuration (Skill #5)
|
||||
- ✅ Property dependencies documented (e.g., sendBody → contentType)
|
||||
- ✅ Operation-specific requirements vary
|
||||
- ✅ 8 AI connection types supported
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Tools Availability Summary
|
||||
|
||||
**Available WITHOUT n8n API**:
|
||||
- search_nodes, list_nodes, get_node_essentials ✅
|
||||
- validate_node_minimal, validate_node_operation ✅
|
||||
- validate_workflow, get_property_dependencies ✅
|
||||
- search_templates, get_template, list_tasks ✅
|
||||
|
||||
**Requires n8n API** (AVAILABLE at n8n-test.n8n-mcp.com):
|
||||
- n8n_create_workflow ✅
|
||||
- n8n_update_partial_workflow ✅
|
||||
- n8n_validate_workflow (by ID) ✅
|
||||
- n8n_list_workflows, n8n_get_workflow ✅
|
||||
- n8n_trigger_webhook_workflow ✅
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
**Testing Complete**: Ready for skill implementation with real data!
|
||||
2021
docs/SKILLS_IMPLEMENTATION_GUIDE.md
Normal file
2021
docs/SKILLS_IMPLEMENTATION_GUIDE.md
Normal file
File diff suppressed because it is too large
Load Diff
502
docs/USAGE.md
Normal file
502
docs/USAGE.md
Normal file
@@ -0,0 +1,502 @@
|
||||
# Usage Guide
|
||||
|
||||
Learn how to use n8n-skills effectively with Claude.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## How Skills Activate
|
||||
|
||||
Skills activate **automatically** based on your query content. You don't need to manually invoke them.
|
||||
|
||||
### Activation Triggers
|
||||
|
||||
Each skill has specific triggers defined in its frontmatter:
|
||||
|
||||
```markdown
|
||||
---
|
||||
name: n8n Expression Syntax
|
||||
description: Validate n8n expression syntax and fix common errors. Use when writing n8n expressions, using {{}} syntax, accessing $json/$node variables, or troubleshooting expression errors in workflows.
|
||||
---
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
When your query matches the description keywords, the skill activates.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Individual Skill Usage
|
||||
|
||||
### 1. n8n Expression Syntax
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: expression, {{}} syntax, $json, $node, webhook data access
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Queries**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"How do I write n8n expressions?"
|
||||
"Why is {{$json.email}} showing undefined?"
|
||||
"Access webhook data in Slack node"
|
||||
"What's wrong with my $node reference?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What You'll Learn**:
|
||||
- Correct {{}} syntax
|
||||
- Webhook data structure ($json.body.*)
|
||||
- Node references ($node["Node Name"].json)
|
||||
- Common mistakes and fixes
|
||||
- When NOT to use expressions (Code nodes)
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Response**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Skill activates]
|
||||
|
||||
n8n expressions must be wrapped in double curly braces:
|
||||
|
||||
✅ Correct: {{$json.body.email}}
|
||||
❌ Wrong: $json.body.email
|
||||
|
||||
For webhook data, remember it's under .body:
|
||||
{{$json.body.name}} // Webhook form data
|
||||
{{$json.body.message}} // Webhook message
|
||||
|
||||
In Code nodes, use direct access (no {{}}):
|
||||
const email = $json.body.email; // Correct in Code node
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### 2. n8n MCP Tools Expert
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: search nodes, validate, find node, MCP tools, template, workflow
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Queries**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Find me a Slack node"
|
||||
"How do I search for database nodes?"
|
||||
"Validate this node configuration"
|
||||
"What's the difference between get_node_info and get_node_essentials?"
|
||||
"Which MCP tool should I use to create workflows?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What You'll Learn**:
|
||||
- Tool selection (which tool for which task)
|
||||
- nodeType format differences
|
||||
- Validation profiles (minimal/runtime/ai-friendly/strict)
|
||||
- Common MCP tool mistakes
|
||||
- Workflow management tools
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Response**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Skill activates]
|
||||
|
||||
To find the Slack node, use search_nodes:
|
||||
|
||||
search_nodes({query: "slack"})
|
||||
|
||||
This returns:
|
||||
- nodeType: "nodes-base.slack" (for search/validate tools)
|
||||
- workflowNodeType: "n8n-nodes-base.slack" (for workflows)
|
||||
|
||||
⚠️ Important: Use different formats for different tools!
|
||||
|
||||
Next, get node details:
|
||||
get_node_essentials({nodeType: "nodes-base.slack"})
|
||||
|
||||
This returns focused 5KB data vs 100KB+ from get_node_info.
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### 3. n8n Workflow Patterns
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: build workflow, webhook, pattern, architecture, workflow structure
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Queries**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Build a webhook to Slack workflow"
|
||||
"What's the best pattern for API integration?"
|
||||
"Create a scheduled database workflow"
|
||||
"Show me webhook processing pattern"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What You'll Learn**:
|
||||
- 5 proven patterns (webhook, HTTP API, database, AI, scheduled)
|
||||
- Workflow creation checklist
|
||||
- Node connection best practices
|
||||
- Real template examples
|
||||
- Pattern selection guide
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Response**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Skill activates]
|
||||
|
||||
For webhook to Slack, use the Webhook Processing pattern:
|
||||
|
||||
Pattern Structure:
|
||||
Webhook Trigger → [Transform] → Slack Notification
|
||||
|
||||
Workflow Checklist:
|
||||
□ Search for nodes (search_nodes)
|
||||
□ Get node configurations (get_node_essentials)
|
||||
□ Create workflow structure
|
||||
□ Add data mappings (expressions)
|
||||
□ Validate workflow
|
||||
□ Test with sample data
|
||||
|
||||
Real Example from Template #2947:
|
||||
Webhook → OpenStreetMap → NWS → Slack
|
||||
(1,500 views, proven pattern)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### 4. n8n Validation Expert
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: validation, error, fix, debug, validate workflow
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Queries**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Why is my workflow validation failing?"
|
||||
"Fix this validation error"
|
||||
"Explain this validation warning"
|
||||
"What does auto-sanitization do?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What You'll Learn**:
|
||||
- Validation loop workflow
|
||||
- Error interpretation
|
||||
- Auto-sanitization system
|
||||
- False positives handling
|
||||
- Profile selection
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Response**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Skill activates]
|
||||
|
||||
Validation Error: "Required field 'channel' missing"
|
||||
|
||||
Fix:
|
||||
validate_node_operation({
|
||||
nodeType: "nodes-base.slack",
|
||||
config: {
|
||||
resource: "message",
|
||||
operation: "post",
|
||||
channel: "#general", // Add this!
|
||||
text: "Message"
|
||||
},
|
||||
profile: "runtime"
|
||||
})
|
||||
|
||||
Auto-sanitization will fix:
|
||||
✅ Binary operator structures (equals, contains)
|
||||
✅ Unary operator structures (isEmpty, isNotEmpty)
|
||||
✅ Missing metadata in IF/Switch nodes
|
||||
|
||||
But cannot fix:
|
||||
❌ Broken connections
|
||||
❌ Branch count mismatches
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
### 5. n8n Node Configuration
|
||||
|
||||
**Activates on**: configure node, property, operation, dependencies, AI workflow
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Queries**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"How do I configure the HTTP Request node?"
|
||||
"What properties does the Slack node need?"
|
||||
"Explain property dependencies"
|
||||
"Set up AI Agent workflow"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What You'll Learn**:
|
||||
- Operation-specific requirements
|
||||
- Property dependencies (sendBody → contentType)
|
||||
- AI connection types (8 types)
|
||||
- Common configuration patterns
|
||||
|
||||
**Example Response**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
[Skill activates]
|
||||
|
||||
HTTP Request node property dependencies:
|
||||
|
||||
1. Set sendBody = true
|
||||
↓ Reveals: contentType
|
||||
|
||||
2. Set contentType = "json"
|
||||
↓ Reveals: specifyBody
|
||||
|
||||
3. Set specifyBody = "json"
|
||||
↓ Reveals: jsonBody
|
||||
|
||||
This cascade of 32 dependencies ensures you see only relevant properties!
|
||||
|
||||
For AI workflows, 8 connection types:
|
||||
- ai_languageModel (OpenAI, Anthropic)
|
||||
- ai_tool (HTTP Request Tool, Code Tool)
|
||||
- ai_memory (Window Buffer Memory)
|
||||
- ai_outputParser, ai_embedding, ai_vectorStore...
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Cross-Skill Composition
|
||||
|
||||
Skills work **together automatically**. Here's how:
|
||||
|
||||
### Example: Complete Workflow Build
|
||||
|
||||
**Your Query**:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Build and validate a webhook to Slack workflow with proper data mapping"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**What Happens** (all automatic):
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 1**: n8n Workflow Patterns activates
|
||||
```
|
||||
→ Identifies: Webhook Processing Pattern
|
||||
→ Provides: Workflow structure
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 2**: n8n MCP Tools Expert activates
|
||||
```
|
||||
→ Searches: search_nodes({query: "webhook"})
|
||||
→ Searches: search_nodes({query: "slack"})
|
||||
→ Gets details: get_node_essentials for both
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 3**: n8n Node Configuration activates
|
||||
```
|
||||
→ Guides: Webhook node setup (path, httpMethod)
|
||||
→ Guides: Slack node setup (resource, operation, channel)
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 4**: n8n Expression Syntax activates
|
||||
```
|
||||
→ Provides: {{$json.body.message}} for data mapping
|
||||
→ Warns: Webhook data is under .body!
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Step 5**: n8n Validation Expert activates
|
||||
```
|
||||
→ Validates: Complete workflow structure
|
||||
→ Checks: Node configurations
|
||||
→ Reports: Any errors or warnings
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
**Result**: Complete, validated, working workflow!
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Common Use Cases
|
||||
|
||||
### Use Case 1: Quick Node Search
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
You: "Find email nodes"
|
||||
|
||||
[n8n MCP Tools Expert activates]
|
||||
Claude: Uses search_nodes({query: "email"})
|
||||
Returns: Gmail, Email Send, IMAP Email, etc.
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Use Case 2: Fix Expression Error
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
You: "My {{$json.name}} is showing undefined in webhook workflow"
|
||||
|
||||
[n8n Expression Syntax activates]
|
||||
Claude: Webhook data is under .body!
|
||||
Fix: {{$json.body.name}}
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Use Case 3: Understand Validation Error
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
You: "Validation says 'binary operator cannot have singleValue'"
|
||||
|
||||
[n8n Validation Expert activates]
|
||||
Claude: Binary operators (equals, contains) should NOT have singleValue.
|
||||
Auto-sanitization will fix this on next update.
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Use Case 4: Build AI Workflow
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
You: "Create an AI Agent workflow with HTTP Request tool"
|
||||
|
||||
[n8n Workflow Patterns + Node Configuration activate]
|
||||
Claude: AI Agent Workflow Pattern:
|
||||
1. Connect language model: sourceOutput="ai_languageModel"
|
||||
2. Connect tool: sourceOutput="ai_tool"
|
||||
3. Connect memory: sourceOutput="ai_memory"
|
||||
|
||||
[Provides complete configuration]
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Best Practices
|
||||
|
||||
### 1. Be Specific
|
||||
|
||||
**Good**: "Build a webhook that receives form data and posts to Slack"
|
||||
**Better**: "Build a webhook to Slack workflow with form validation and error handling"
|
||||
|
||||
**Why**: More specific queries activate relevant skills with better context.
|
||||
|
||||
### 2. Ask Follow-Up Questions
|
||||
|
||||
Skills provide deep knowledge. Don't hesitate to ask:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Explain property dependencies in HTTP Request node"
|
||||
"Show me more webhook examples"
|
||||
"What are validation profiles?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### 3. Request Validation
|
||||
|
||||
Always ask for validation:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Build this workflow AND validate it"
|
||||
"Check if this configuration is correct"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### 4. Leverage Cross-Skill Knowledge
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Build, validate, and explain the expressions in this workflow"
|
||||
→ Activates: Patterns + Validation + Expression Syntax
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### 5. Reference Real Templates
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Show me template #2947 and explain how it works"
|
||||
→ Uses n8n-mcp tools to fetch and analyze real templates
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Skill Limitations
|
||||
|
||||
### What Skills CAN Do:
|
||||
✅ Teach n8n concepts
|
||||
✅ Guide MCP tool usage
|
||||
✅ Provide workflow patterns
|
||||
✅ Interpret validation errors
|
||||
✅ Explain configurations
|
||||
✅ Reference real templates
|
||||
|
||||
### What Skills CANNOT Do:
|
||||
❌ Execute workflows (use n8n for that)
|
||||
❌ Access your n8n instance directly (use n8n-mcp API tools)
|
||||
❌ Modify running workflows
|
||||
❌ Debug runtime execution errors (only configuration errors)
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Tool Availability
|
||||
|
||||
**Always Available** (no n8n API needed):
|
||||
- search_nodes, list_nodes, get_node_essentials ✅
|
||||
- validate_node_minimal, validate_node_operation ✅
|
||||
- validate_workflow, get_property_dependencies ✅
|
||||
- search_templates, get_template ✅
|
||||
|
||||
**Requires n8n API** (N8N_API_URL + N8N_API_KEY):
|
||||
- n8n_create_workflow ⚠️
|
||||
- n8n_update_partial_workflow ⚠️
|
||||
- n8n_validate_workflow (by ID) ⚠️
|
||||
- n8n_list_workflows, n8n_get_workflow ⚠️
|
||||
- n8n_trigger_webhook_workflow ⚠️
|
||||
|
||||
If API tools unavailable, skills use templates and validation-only workflows.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Troubleshooting
|
||||
|
||||
### Skill Not Activating
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Skill doesn't activate when expected
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**: Rephrase query to match activation keywords
|
||||
```
|
||||
Instead of: "How do I use expressions?"
|
||||
Try: "How do I write n8n expressions with {{}} syntax?"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Wrong Skill Activates
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Different skill than expected activates
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**: This is usually fine! Skills complement each other.
|
||||
If needed, be more specific:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Using n8n MCP tools, search for webhook node"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Multiple Skills Needed
|
||||
|
||||
**Problem**: Need knowledge from multiple skills
|
||||
|
||||
**Solution**: Ask a comprehensive question:
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Build, configure, and validate a webhook workflow with explanations"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
All relevant skills will activate automatically.
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Advanced Usage
|
||||
|
||||
### Request Specific Tool Usage
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Use get_node_essentials to show me Slack node configuration"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Ask for Real Examples
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Show me real template examples of webhook workflows"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Request Step-by-Step
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"Step by step: build a webhook to database workflow with validation at each step"
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
### Debug with Skills
|
||||
|
||||
```
|
||||
"My workflow fails validation. Debug it using validation expert knowledge."
|
||||
```
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Next Steps
|
||||
|
||||
- **Getting Started**: Try example queries above
|
||||
- **Deep Dive**: Read individual SKILL.md files in skills/
|
||||
- **Contribute**: See [DEVELOPMENT.md](DEVELOPMENT.md)
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
## Support
|
||||
|
||||
- **Issues**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/issues
|
||||
- **Discussions**: https://github.com/czlonkowski/n8n-skills/discussions
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
**Ready to build amazing n8n workflows with Claude? Start asking questions!** 🚀
|
||||
|
||||
---
|
||||
|
||||
Conceived by Romuald Członkowski - [www.aiadvisors.pl/en](https://www.aiadvisors.pl/en)
|
||||
Reference in New Issue
Block a user