Prompt Templates
Prompt templates are structured conversation starters that help you get targeted assistance from your AI client when working with KiCad. They provide context and structure for common tasks so the AI knows exactly what kind of help you need.
Available templates
Section titled “Available templates”General KiCad
Section titled “General KiCad”| Template | Description | Use when… |
|---|---|---|
create_new_component | Guidance for creating new KiCad components | You need to create a schematic symbol, PCB footprint, or 3D model |
debug_pcb_issues | Help with troubleshooting PCB problems | You encounter issues with your PCB design |
pcb_manufacturing_checklist | Preparation guidance for manufacturing | You are getting ready to send your PCB for fabrication |
DRC-specific
Section titled “DRC-specific”| Template | Description | Use when… |
|---|---|---|
fix_drc_violations | Help resolving DRC violations | You have design rule violations to fix |
custom_design_rules | Guidance for creating custom design rules | You need specialized rules for your project |
BOM-related
Section titled “BOM-related”| Template | Description | Use when… |
|---|---|---|
analyze_components | Analysis of component usage | You want insights about your component selections |
cost_estimation | Help estimating project costs | You need to budget for your PCB project |
bom_export_help | Assistance with exporting BOMs | You need help creating or customizing BOMs |
component_sourcing | Guidance for finding components | You need to purchase components |
bom_comparison | Compare BOMs between revisions | You want to understand changes between versions |
Using templates
Section titled “Using templates”In MCP clients that support prompts (like Claude Desktop), you can access these through the prompt templates interface. Select a template, fill in any required fields (like project path), and the AI will have the right context to assist you.
You can also reference the templates by name in conversation:
Use the debug_pcb_issues template to help me with my power supply board at /path/to/project.kicad_proDesign review workflow
Section titled “Design review workflow”Combine several templates for a thorough design review:
- Start with
analyze_componentsto understand your component choices - Use
debug_pcb_issuesto identify potential problems - Run
pcb_manufacturing_checklistbefore sending to fab - Follow up with
cost_estimationfor budgeting
Adding custom templates
Section titled “Adding custom templates”See Adding Tools for the general pattern. Prompt templates follow the same module structure as tools and resources.