MCP servers with Claude: define tools before connecting an API

Prepare a server with MCP Builder →

The skill helps write a server; it is not the finished connector. Start with a few actions, parameters, responses and expected errors. Supply API documentation and an executable environment. The pack proposes TypeScript or Python, but compare SDK examples against the versions used. Separate reads from writes and supply secrets through appropriate configuration rather than shared files.

Prepare information

API documentation, desired tools, language, development environment and test access. No secrets in the prompt. Identify versions and separate facts from assumptions before starting.

Fictional test example

Fictional example: the first tool lists projects in a test account. Check normal output, pagination and denied access. An empty result must not conceal authentication failure. Add further actions only afterwards.

Check the deliverable

Official documentation distinguishes MCP servers and clients. Build and test the code, then check connection in the chosen client. Importing the skill ZIP into Claude neither deploys the server nor grants API access.

The linked skill page provides the download and practical steps.

Model Context Protocol — build a server.