Skills teach; MCP connects
Skills are procedural packages. They tell an agent how to approach a task, which checks to run, and how to present the result. MCP servers expose tools and context from external systems through a common protocol.
They are complementary
A CRM MCP server may expose contacts and opportunities. A sales follow-up skill can teach the agent when to query those tools, how to summarize account context, and what must be confirmed before drafting a message.
Choose the smallest capability
Use a skill when the agent already has the necessary tools but needs a reliable workflow. Use MCP when the missing piece is access to an external system. Combine them when the connection needs domain-specific operating guidance.