mcp-cli-tool

Discover, inspect, and execute MCP server tools from the command line.

7|2|Updated May 16, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Aradotso/mcp-skills --skill mcp-cli-tool
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: mcp-cli-tool
Source: https://github.com/Aradotso/mcp-skills/tree/main/skills/mcp-cli-tool
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Aradotso/mcp-skills --skill mcp-cli-tool

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

It solves the problem of discovering, inspecting, and executing MCP server tools without loading large schemas into your AI context or writing custom client code.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • On-demand schema loading to fetch tool definitions only when needed, reducing tokens.
  • Shell composability (JSON output) so results can be piped to tools like jq for automation.
  • Unified support for stdio and HTTP MCP servers via a single CLI workflow.
  • Tool filtering per server using allowedTools and disabledTools to limit capabilities and simplify discovery.

Quick Start

Run mcp-cli info to list your configured MCP servers and their available tools.

Frequently Asked Questions about mcp-cli-tool

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I call MCP server tools from the command line?

You can call MCP server tools from the command line by configuring a valid mcp_servers.json file and using the CLI to discover, inspect, and execute tool commands. It supports both stdio and HTTP transports for interactive exploration and shell-based automation.

How do I inspect MCP tool schemas without loading large contexts?

To inspect MCP tool schemas without loading large contexts, use the on-demand schema loading feature. This fetches tool definitions only when needed, significantly reducing token consumption during interactive exploration and tool capability discovery.

Can I pipe MCP tool JSON output to jq for shell automation?

Yes, you can pipe MCP tool JSON output to jq for shell automation. The CLI provides shell composability through JSON output, enabling results to be piped directly to tools like jq for scripted multi-step MCP calls and data processing.

Do I need a specific configuration file to discover MCP servers?

Yes, you need a valid mcp_servers.json configuration file to discover MCP servers. Alternatively, you can specify the configuration path using the MCP_CONFIG_PATH or -c flag to locate your server definitions.

How do I filter specific tools when invoking an MCP server?

You filter specific tools when invoking an MCP server by using the allowedTools and disabledTools settings in your configuration. This limits exposed capabilities per server, simplifying tool discovery and restricting execution scope.

How does environment variable substitution work in MCP server configuration?

Environment variable substitution works in MCP server configuration by dynamically replacing values, with MCP_STRICT_ENV controlling the behavior. This allows flexible configuration management while preventing unauthorized or missing environment variables from disrupting server connections.