How do I install the understanding 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?

It reads `PROJECT_DIR`, `ANTHROPIC_API_KEY` from the environment. Store these in your client's env block or a secrets manager — never commit them to a repository — and grant the narrowest scope that still covers your use case.

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Understanding MCP Server

Persistent reasoning memory for AI agents via typed cognitive nodes and supersedes edges.

Local serverstdio

What is the Understanding MCP Server?

Persistent reasoning memory for AI agents via typed cognitive nodes and supersedes edges.

What you get

Understanding Graph is an MCP server that gives AI agents structured, persistent memory. Unlike knowledge bases that store facts, it stores the reasoning process -- tensions, surprises, decisions, and how beliefs evolved over time. Multiple agents coordinate through the graph itself: each agent reads what others have written, builds on it, and leaves traces for the next -- stigmergy.

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.

How to install the Understanding MCP Server

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "understanding-graph": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "understanding-graph"],
      "env": {
        "PROJECT_DIR": "your-value",
        "ANTHROPIC_API_KEY": "your-value"
      }
    }
  }
}

Add to claude_desktop_config.json, then restart Claude Desktop.

Configuration

Variable	Description	Required
PROJECT_DIR	Filesystem location the server is allowed to use.	Optional
ANTHROPIC_API_KEY	Credential the server authenticates with.	Yes

Example prompts to try

“Use Understanding to Documents.”
“Use Understanding to Projects.”

Frequently asked questions

Persistent reasoning memory for AI agents via typed cognitive nodes and supersedes edges. Confirm the tools offered by your installed version in the connected client. Tool availability and permissions depend on the server and account configuration.