Agent Skills vs MCP vs Plugins: What to Use and When

Agent Skills vs MCP vs pluginsAn Agent Skill defines a reusable method through instructions, examples, and optional scripts. An MCP server connects an agent to live tools and data. A plugin packages supported extensions for installation and updates.Choose by what you need to add

Use a skill when the method, judgment rules, or repeated procedure is the product.

Use MCP when the agent needs live data or must perform an action in an external system.

Use a plugin when a team needs a versioned, installable bundle.

Combine them when a reusable procedure also needs live access and managed distribution.

Create a custom Agent Skill or browse the complete guide library.