A skill describes how to work; MCP provides a connection to tools or data. They are not interchangeable features, although a workflow can combine them. 1
Identify the missing capability
When Claude can already read the necessary files but needs to follow a repeatable editorial process, a skill is a good fit. It might define an article structure, source checks and translation requirements. Skills can include supporting files and scripts, rather than being limited to a single prompt. 2
When the missing piece is access to an external service, think about a connection and its permissions. MCP can expose a tool for reading a report, for example. The connection does not decide which conclusions are justified by that report. 3
A practical example
For a weekly website report, an MCP connection could retrieve the data. A skill could specify how to compare periods, separate evidence from assumptions and write the summary. The same analysis instructions could also work with a manually supplied export.
Start with the smallest useful setup. A recurring text format does not require a new server, and a well-written skill does not create access to an unconnected account.
Review the source of both additions and keep permissions narrow. Instructions inside a file are not sufficient authorization for deleting records, publishing content or emailing customers.
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