How do I install the overleaf mcp server?

Use a recorded configuration for your client, replace example credential values and paths, and verify the documented runtime. Restart or reconnect the client, then inspect the available tools.

What credentials does it need?

The recorded environment keys are `PROJECT_ID`, `OVERLEAF_TOKEN`. Keep credentials outside committed files and confirm the configuration required by your installed version.

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Overleaf MCP Server

MCP server that lets compatible clients (e.g., Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code) interact with Overleaf projects via tools and resources.

Local serverstdioPython

What is the Overleaf MCP Server?

MCP server that lets compatible clients (e.g., Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code) interact with Overleaf projects via tools and resources.

What the server does

List projects and files
Safe, read-only mode

Credentials and setup notes

Python 3.10+ - An Overleaf account (or session cookie)

More MCP options

Compare MCP servers by category, or browse hosted MCP servers if you prefer an endpoint over a local process.

Maintainer setup documentation.

Recorded tools

Check the linked publisher documentation and your connected client's tool list. Names and availability can vary with the server version and account permissions.

Tool	What it does
list_of_files	List all files in the project.
read_file	Read a specified file from the project.

How to install the Overleaf MCP Server

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "overleaf": {
      "command": "uvx",
      "args": [
        "overleaf-mcp"
      ],
      "env": {
        "PROJECT_ID": "<YOUR_PROJECT_ID>",
        "OVERLEAF_TOKEN": "YOUR_OVERLEAF_TOKEN"
      },
      "timeout": 120000
    }
  }
}

From the project documentation. Replace placeholders and example paths before connecting.

Configuration

Python 3.10+ - An Overleaf account (or session cookie)

Variable	Description	Required
PROJECT_ID	Declared in the maintainer’s client configuration.	Check documentation
OVERLEAF_TOKEN	Declared in the maintainer’s client configuration.	Check documentation

Example prompts to try

“Use Overleaf to list of files.”
“Use Overleaf to read file.”

Frequently asked questions

MCP server that lets compatible clients (e.g., Claude Desktop, Cursor, VS Code) interact with Overleaf projects via tools and resources. Confirm the tools offered by your installed version in the connected client. Tool availability and permissions depend on the server and account configuration.