MCP Server Coding Demo Guide

What is MCP Server Coding Demo Guide?

A step‑by‑step guide for developers to create their own MCP server. It provides a basic template (index.ts) and a working demo (demo.ts) that integrates with an external API via RapidAPI. Aimed at developers new to MCP who want to learn by building.

How to use MCP Server Coding Demo Guide?

Follow the numbered steps: clone the repository, review the source files, select an API on RapidAPI and obtain an authorization key, configure the server name and tool, install dependencies with npm install && npm run build, then configure your chat app using a JSON file that sets the build path, command, and your RapidAPI key as an environment variable. Finally, restart the chat application and test by launching a chat.

Key features of MCP Server Coding Demo Guide

• Provides a basic template server and a functional demo.
• Guides selection of an API from RapidAPI.
• Shows how to configure tools, resources, and authentication.
• Includes instructions for building and deploying the server.
• Supports chat apps like Claude Desktop and 5ire.
• Offers debugging and troubleshooting links.
• Alternative approach using Cline in VS Code for non‑coders.

Use cases of MCP Server Coding Demo Guide

• Learning to build an MCP server from scratch.
• Creating a custom MCP server to integrate a third‑party API.
• Rapid prototyping of an MCP server for personal or team use.
• Teaching MCP development in workshops or tutorials.

FAQ from MCP Server Coding Demo Guide

What are the prerequisites for using this guide?

You need Node.js and npm installed, and an account on RapidAPI to obtain an authorization key.

Where should I place the MCP configuration file on macOS?

Save the configuration file in ~/Library/Application Support (or the equivalent for your chat app) and then restart the chat application.

How do I set my RapidAPI key?

Add it as an environment variable in the JSON configuration under "env" with key "RAPIDAPI_KEY".

What if my server doesn’t work?

Refer to the debugging documentation at modelcontextprotocol.io/docs/tools/debugging and the help resources linked in the guide.

How can I create an MCP server without writing code manually?

Install the Cline extension in VS Code, add your API key, select a capable model, create a new directory, and instruct Cline to build an MCP server using the sample prompt included in the repository.