MCP Server Template

What is MCP Server Template?

MCP Server Template is a starter project for building Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers. It provides a development environment, an Architect tool that integrates with the LLM CLI for architectural design feedback, and built-in testing utilities. The template is intended for developers who want to create MCP servers and need a ready-to-use structure with hot reload, testing, and debugging support.

How to use MCP Server Template?

Install dependencies with npm install, then start development with npm run dev. Build the project with npm run build, run tests with npm test, and start the production server with npm start. For local testing, use the TestClient, MCP Inspector (npx @modelcontextprotocol/inspector node dist/index.js), or integrate with Cursor by building and linking the package.

Key features of MCP Server Template

• Architect tool for architectural design feedback via LLM CLI
• Maintains conversation context across multiple LLM interactions
• Includes TestClient for unit testing of tools
• MCP Inspector for visual debugging and tool inspection
• Hot reload development server with npm run dev
• Integration with Cursor for local MCP server testing

Use cases of MCP Server Template

• Building a new MCP server from a structured template
• Getting architectural feedback on designs using the LLM CLI
• Testing MCP tool implementations with a built-in test client
• Debugging MCP server communication via the inspector web UI
• Developing and testing MCP servers locally with Cursor

FAQ from MCP Server Template

What prerequisites does the template require?

The LLM CLI must be installed and available in your PATH. It can be installed via brew install llm.

How do I test my tools locally?

Use the TestClient (imported from ./utils/TestClient) for unit tests, or run the MCP Inspector with npx @modelcontextprotocol/inspector node dist/index.js for visual debugging.

Can I test the MCP server with Cursor?

Yes. Build the project, run npm run link, then add the server to Cursor settings as a command-type MCP server using the linked binary name (architect-test-mcp-tool).

How do I debug communication issues?

Use the MCP Inspector, which provides a web interface at http://localhost:5173 to view tools, test calls, and inspect request/response payloads.

What dependencies are needed to run the template?

Node.js, npm, and the LLM CLI. The template uses standard npm scripts for installation, development, building, testing, and production.