15/06/2026
If you've been using Claude for a while, you've probably seen three words that sound like they should make sense but don't quite click together. Skills. Connectors. Plugins. Here's what each one actually does.
A skill is a saved instruction file that teaches Claude how to do a specific task your way. You build it once, Claude follows it every time. Think of it like a standing order. I have a skill that writes my LinkedIn posts in my voice, one that generates Instagram hooks, one that finds SEO opportunities for prospects. I build them once, they run every time.
A connector gives Claude access to your apps and data. Gmail, Google Drive, Google Calendar. Without a connector, Claude only knows what you type into the chat. With one, it can read your emails, check your calendar, access your files. You still have to ask it — but it's working with your real data, not just what you tell it.
A plugin bundles skills and connectors together into a single install. Think of it as a ready-made toolkit for a specific job. Instead of setting things up piece by piece, you install one plugin and everything comes with it. Plugins are the most advanced layer — they currently run in Cowork rather than the standard Claude interface.
Skills and connectors work on every plan, including the free one. Plugins need Cowork.
That's it. Three features, three different jobs.
