dropbox-mcp
Provides read/write access to a Dropbox account (personal or Business/Team) over the Dropbox API v2, including file listing, metadata, upload/download, search, folder operations, and shared link management.
Click on "Install Server".
Wait a few minutes for the server to deploy. Once ready, it will show a "Started" state.
In the chat, type
@followed by the MCP server name and your instructions, e.g., "@dropbox-mcpsearch my Dropbox for the quarterly financial report"
That's it! The server will respond to your query, and you can continue using it as needed.
Here is a step-by-step guide with screenshots.
dropbox-mcp
A Model Context Protocol server that gives an LLM agent read/write access to a Dropbox account — personal or Business/Team — over the Dropbox API v2.
The problem
Dropbox's own desktop client solves file syncing. It does not solve giving an AI agent controlled access to an account it doesn't have a local copy of. An agent that can only see synced folders can't search a 2 TB team archive, can't mint a share link, and can't read a file it was never given.
This server closes that gap. It talks to the Dropbox HTTP API directly, so it
works against the whole account without syncing a single byte to disk, and it
exposes that access as a fixed set of MCP tools rather than a raw HTTP client —
the agent gets dropbox_search, not fetch.
Related MCP server: Dropbox MCP Server
Architecture
Four tool modules (files, search, sharing, account) register themselves
against a single McpServer speaking MCP over stdio. Every module funnels
through one HTTP client that owns the two things the Dropbox API makes
annoying: the OAuth token lifecycle and the team-space namespace. Modules can
be disabled individually at startup via DROPBOX_DISABLED_MODULES, so a
deployment that shouldn't be able to create public share links simply doesn't
register that module — the capability is absent, not merely discouraged.
MCP host (Claude, etc.)
| stdio (JSON-RPC)
+-------v--------------------------------------+
| index.ts module registry / stdio transport|
+-------+--------------------------------------+
|
+-------v-------+ +--------+ +---------+ +---------+
| tools/files | | search | | sharing | | account |
+-------+-------+ +---+----+ +----+----+ +----+----+
| | | |
+------+------+-----------+-----------+
|
+--------v-----------------------------------+
| client.ts |
| - refresh-token -> access-token cache |
| - 401 retry with a forced refresh |
| - Dropbox-API-Path-Root resolution |
| - ASCII-safe Dropbox-API-Arg encoding |
+--------+-----------------------------------+
|
RPC api.dropboxapi.com Content content.dropboxapi.comTwo endpoint families, deliberately kept as separate functions: RPC endpoints
are JSON-in/JSON-out, while Content endpoints put their arguments in an HTTP
header and use the body for file bytes. Collapsing them into one generic
request() would have meant a parameter that silently changes where the
arguments go, so they stay apart.
The genuinely hard part
On a Dropbox Business team, the API defaults to the member's home namespace.
Every team folder — which is where the actual shared work lives — sits in the
team's root namespace instead and is simply invisible. list_folder on ""
returns the member's private files and nothing else, with no error and no hint
that most of the account is missing. It looks like a permissions problem and
isn't one.
The fix is to send a Dropbox-API-Path-Root header pointing at the team root
namespace, whose id you get from users/get_current_account. That introduces a
recursion trap: the generic RPC helper attaches the path-root header to every
call, so having it resolve the namespace by calling get_current_account
through itself means the header resolution calls the header resolution
forever. resolveRootNamespaceId() therefore issues a deliberately bare
fetch that bypasses the helper, and the result is memoised so the extra round
trip happens once per process (src/client.ts).
A smaller version of the same class of bug: Content endpoints pass their
arguments in Dropbox-API-Arg, and HTTP headers are ASCII. Any file with an
accented character or an emoji in its name throws inside fetch rather than
returning an API error. apiArg() escapes every non-ASCII code point to
\uXXXX before the header is built.
What I'd do differently
No tests. This was built and verified by hand against a live account. The token-refresh path, the 401 retry, and the chunked upload boundary conditions are exactly the code that should have been driven by tests with a mocked transport — they're the parts that fail rarely and expensively.
The path-root cache is per-process and never invalidated. Fine for a stdio server that a host restarts freely; wrong for anything long-lived where a user could be moved between teams.
dropbox_deleteis exposed with no confirmation affordance. Dropbox's own retention makes it recoverable, but a destructive tool should signal that in its schema rather than relying on the host to ask.Errors are shaped into strings. Returning a structured error code alongside the message would let an agent branch on "rate limited" versus "not found" without parsing prose.
Setup
Requires Node 20+ (developed on 24) and a Dropbox account.
1. Create a Dropbox app
Go to https://www.dropbox.com/developers/apps and choose Create app.
Pick Scoped access and Full Dropbox access.
On Permissions, enable
account_info.read,files.metadata.read,files.metadata.write,files.content.read,files.content.write,sharing.read,sharing.write, then Submit.On Settings, copy the App key and App secret.
2. Build and authorise
git clone <this-repo>
cd dropbox-mcp
npm install
npm run build
cp .env.example .env # fill in DROPBOX_APP_KEY and DROPBOX_APP_SECRET
npm run auth # prints DROPBOX_REFRESH_TOKEN — paste it into .envnpm run auth prints a consent URL, takes the code you paste back, and
exchanges it for a refresh token. The server trades that for short-lived access
tokens on its own from then on.
3. Register with an MCP host
{
"mcpServers": {
"dropbox": {
"command": "node",
"args": ["/absolute/path/to/dropbox-mcp/dist/index.js"],
"env": {
"DROPBOX_APP_KEY": "your-app-key",
"DROPBOX_APP_SECRET": "your-app-secret",
"DROPBOX_REFRESH_TOKEN": "your-refresh-token"
}
}
}
}Restart the host and ask it something like "What's my Dropbox space usage?".
To exercise the server without a host:
npm run inspect # @modelcontextprotocol/inspectorTools
files — dropbox_list_folder, dropbox_get_metadata,
dropbox_create_folder, dropbox_move, dropbox_copy, dropbox_delete,
dropbox_get_temporary_link, dropbox_read_file, dropbox_upload
(auto-chunks large files through upload sessions).
search — dropbox_search across filenames and content, account-wide or
scoped to a folder.
sharing — dropbox_create_shared_link, dropbox_list_shared_links,
dropbox_get_shared_link_metadata, dropbox_revoke_shared_link.
account — dropbox_get_current_account, dropbox_get_space_usage.
Configuration
All configuration is environment variables; see .env.example
for the full annotated list, including the namespace control
(DROPBOX_PATH_ROOT), the read-size cap (DROPBOX_MAX_READ_BYTES), the upload
chunk size, and the team-app impersonation headers.
Licence
MIT — see LICENSE.
Available Tools
16 toolsdropbox_copyCopyB
Copy a file or folder to a new path.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| to_path | Yes | ||
| from_path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. | |
| autorename | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already indicate this is not read-only, so the description adds little about mutating behavior. It does not disclose what happens on conflicts, whether intermediate folders are created, how autorename interacts, or whether the source is preserved. No contradiction with annotations exists.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, direct sentence with no filler or redundant elaboration. It is front-loaded and every word contributes to the basic purpose.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a mutating tool with no output schema and an open-world annotation, the description is too sparse. It omits important context about conflict behavior, autorename semantics, and what the operation returns or changes, leaving the agent to guess about critical execution details.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The description adds no parameter-level meaning beyond the input schema. With schema description coverage at only 33%, the description should compensate for undocumented parameters like autorename, but it does not mention any parameters at all.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific verb ('Copy') and resource ('a file or folder') with a clear destination ('a new path'). It is unambiguous about what the tool does, though it does not explicitly distinguish itself from the sibling dropbox_move beyond the verb itself.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies when to use the tool: when a file or folder should be copied to a new path. However, it gives no explicit guidance about when not to use it or when dropbox_move or other alternatives would be more appropriate.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_create_folderCreate folderB
Create a folder at the given path.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. | |
| autorename | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already disclose that this is a write operation (readOnlyHint=false), has external side effects (openWorldHint=true), and is not idempotent (idempotentHint=false). The description adds no additional behavioral context, such as conflict behavior, permission requirements, or side effects like recursive folder creation.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, efficient sentence with no unnecessary words. It is front-loaded and avoids redundancy, making it optimally concise for a simple tool.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a tool with two parameters, the description omits critical details about behavior on folder existence, the effect of autorename, whether parent folders are created recursively, and error conditions. With no output schema and minimal annotation detail, this bare description is insufficient for an agent to use the tool correctly without guessing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The path parameter is well-documented in the schema with an example, but the autorename parameter lacks any description in both the schema and the tool description. With schema coverage at 50%, the description fails to compensate for the undocumented autorename parameter, leaving its semantics unclear.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description 'Create a folder at the given path' uses a specific verb and resource, clearly distinguishing it from sibling tools like move, copy, delete, and upload. The focus on 'folder' differentiates it from file operations.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The usage is implied by the tool's name and description, but there is no explicit guidance on when to use it versus alternatives (e.g., using upload for files). No exclusions or conditions are mentioned, making it a minimal viable guideline.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_deleteDeleteADestructive
Delete a file or folder (and its contents). Destructive — the item moves to deleted state and can be restored from Dropbox for the retention window.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description goes beyond the destructiveHint annotation by explaining what actually happens: the item 'moves to deleted state' and 'can be restored from Dropbox for the retention window.' This gives the agent useful context about recoverability and the temporary nature of the deletion.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two short sentences with no filler. The core action is front-loaded, and the destructive consequence is stated immediately after, making the most important safety information prominent.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a one-parameter destructive tool with no output schema, the description covers the action, the scope (recursive deletion), the state change, and recoverability. This is sufficient for an agent to correctly select and invoke the tool.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already fully documents the 'path' parameter with an example and root behavior. The description adds semantic value by clarifying that a folder path will delete its contents as well, which is not explicit in the schema description.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb ('Delete'), the target resource ('a file or folder'), and an important scope detail ('and its contents'). It is unambiguous and clearly distinguishes this tool from the sibling file/folder operations like move, copy, upload, and list.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The purpose itself defines when to use the tool: when a file or folder should be removed. It does not explicitly discuss alternatives, but none of the sibling tools perform deletion, so no exclusionary guidance is needed. The destructive warning reinforces that this is the deletion tool.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_get_current_accountGet current accountARead-only
Return the authenticated account (name, email, account id, team). Good for confirming the server is connected to the right Dropbox.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint and openWorldHint, so the read-only nature is established. The description adds behavioral context by specifying exactly what 'authenticated account' includes and ties it to connection verification, which is beyond the structured annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two concise sentences with the return payload front-loaded and the use case in the second sentence. There is no filler or repetition of the title, making it efficient and easy to parse.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple, parameterless, read-only tool, the description is complete: it names the fields returned, the use case, and the operational context. Although there is no output schema, the description fills that gap by enumerating the expected fields.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
This tool has zero parameters, and the schema coverage is 100% (empty schema). The baseline for zero-parameter tools is 4; the description appropriately avoids inventing parameter details and focuses on the call's purpose.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('Return') and resource ('authenticated account') and enumerates the fields returned (name, email, account id, team). This clearly differentiates it from the sibling file/folder tools, leaving no ambiguity about its scope.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives an explicit use case: 'Good for confirming the server is connected to the right Dropbox.' It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusion criteria, but the sibling set makes it obvious that this is the account-inspection tool, and the guidance is sufficient for a zero-parameter call.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_get_metadataGet metadataARead-only
Get metadata (size, modified time, id, etc.) for a single file or folder.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. | |
| include_deleted | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so the description isn't responsible for that. It adds the specific fields returned (size, modified time, id), but does not disclose behavior around deleted items or error handling. It provides minor added context beyond annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The entire description is one short sentence that immediately states the action and resource, then gives illustrative fields. No filler, appropriately sized.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple read-only metadata tool, the description covers the core purpose but omits the include_deleted parameter and its effect. With no output schema, some indication of return format would be helpful, but it's not critical. Overall, it's adequate but has gaps.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 50% (path is documented, include_deleted is not). The description adds no parameter information, failing to explain the purpose of include_deleted. It does not compensate for the missing schema documentation.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb 'Get' and resource 'metadata' for a single file or folder, distinguishing it from list_folder which enumerates contents. Also lists example fields, making the purpose unambiguous.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The phrase 'for a single file or folder' gives clear context that this tool is for a specific path, not a listing operation. However, it does not explicitly name alternatives or state when not to use it, so it stops short of full guidance.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_get_space_usageGet space usageARead-only
Return storage usage and allocation for the account.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so the operation is known to be safe. The description adds only the scope ('for the account') and the fact that it returns both usage and allocation, but does not disclose any additional behavioral nuances (e.g., rate limits, quota details, or potential variability in returned fields). Since annotations cover the main safety trait, a 3 is appropriate.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, efficient sentence that contains no unnecessary words. It leads with the verb 'Return' and immediately states the resource and scope, making it easy for an agent to parse quickly.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple, parameterless read-only tool, the description is nearly complete. It names the return content (storage usage and allocation) and the scope (account). It does not explicitly enumerate the fields of the response (no output schema exists), but the high-level description suffices for an agent to understand what the tool provides. A 4 reflects that slight lack of detail while recognizing the tool's simplicity.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool takes zero parameters, so the description has no parameter-level burden. The schema is empty and fully documented by that fact, and the description correctly focuses on the return value rather than inputs. Baseline 4 for a parameterless tool holds.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a clear, specific verb ('Return') and a well-defined resource ('storage usage and allocation') scoped to 'the account'. It is easily distinguishable from sibling tools like dropbox_get_current_account, which returns account identity details rather than quota/space information.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies usage when an agent needs account storage/quota information, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus siblings. There are no direct exclusions or alternative routing, though the purpose is unambiguous enough that an agent would not confuse it with other file/account operations.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_get_temporary_linkGet temporary linkARead-only
Get a direct, time-limited (~4h) download/streaming URL for a file. Use this to reference or fetch file contents without creating a permanent shared link.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, and the description adds useful behavior: the URL expires in roughly 4 hours, is direct, and supports download/streaming. This goes beyond the annotation by clarifying the temporary nature and the fact that no permanent shared link is created.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is two sentences with no filler. The core action and key constraint (time-limited URL) are front-loaded, and every clause adds relevant guidance.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a single-parameter read-only tool, the description is complete: it names the resource, the purpose, the temporary nature, and the distinction from permanent links. With no output schema, the phrase 'Get a direct ... URL' also conveys the return value sufficiently.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the path parameter is fully documented in the input schema. The tool description does not need to repeat it; it only adds the context that the path refers to a file. This meets the baseline without adding significant new parameter meaning.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('Get') and a precise resource ('direct, time-limited (~4h) download/streaming URL for a file'). It clearly distinguishes this from permanent shared links, which is relevant given siblings like dropbox_create_shared_link, dropbox_list_shared_links, and dropbox_get_shared_link_metadata.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description states when to use it: 'reference or fetch file contents without creating a permanent shared link.' This gives clear context and implicitly excludes permanent-share scenarios, though it does not explicitly name alternate tools or list when-not-to-use conditions.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_list_folderList folderARead-only
List the contents of a folder. Pass "" for the root. Set recursive=true to walk subfolders. If the result is truncated, call again with the returned cursor.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | No | Folder path. Defaults to root (""). | |
| limit | No | ||
| cursor | No | Continuation cursor from a previous truncated result. | |
| recursive | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond readOnlyHint and openWorldHint, the description discloses pagination/truncation behavior and recursion semantics. It does not cover output item shape or ordering, but the annotations already cover safety and the added behavioral traits are useful.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Three short sentences, front-loaded with the action, with no filler. Every sentence contributes actionable guidance.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Covers core invocation, root handling, recursion, and pagination. Missing return item shape and limit semantics, but given the annotations and the simplicity of a list operation this is largely sufficient.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The description explains the non-obvious semantics of path (root), recursive (walk subfolders), and cursor (continuation after truncation). limit is not explained in prose, but its name and min/max constraints make its purpose reasonably inferable.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb ('List') and resource ('contents of a folder'), and clarifies root and recursion. This clearly distinguishes it from siblings such as dropbox_get_metadata or dropbox_read_file.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Provides explicit how-to guidance: root path, recursive=true, and cursor for truncated results. It does not explicitly name alternatives or when not to use it, but the context is clear enough for an agent to select it for folder listing.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_moveMove / renameA
Move or rename a file or folder from one path to another.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| to_path | Yes | Destination path (this is also how you rename). | |
| from_path | Yes | Current path of the item. | |
| autorename | No | If the destination is taken, rename instead of failing. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already mark this as a non-read-only, non-idempotent operation, and the description confirms the move semantics. However, it does not disclose edge-case behaviors such as failure when the destination exists without autorename, or what happens to shared links/source data.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, clear sentence with no redundant wording. It efficiently captures the core operation without unnecessary detail.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
The description is adequate for a simple file operation, especially with a fully documented schema and mutation annotations. However, there is no output schema and no guidance on return values, conflict behavior, or when move should be preferred over copy/delete.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The input schema has 100% parameter description coverage, including the rename semantics of to_path and the autorename behavior. The tool description adds no additional parameter-level meaning beyond what the schema already provides.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses specific verbs 'Move or rename' and clearly states the resource type ('file or folder') and the operation direction ('from one path to another'). This is distinct from sibling tools like dropbox_copy or dropbox_delete.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies the tool is for relocating or renaming items, but it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus dropbox_copy, which is a likely alternative. There is no exclusions or 'when-not-to-use' guidance.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_read_fileRead file (text)ARead-only
Download a file and return its contents as UTF-8 text — for referencing docs, notes, code, csv, etc. Guarded by DROPBOX_MAX_READ_BYTES (default 5 MB). For large or binary files use dropbox_get_temporary_link instead.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | Yes | Dropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond the readOnlyHint annotation: it returns UTF-8 text, enforces a size guard (DROPBOX_MAX_READ_BYTES, default 5 MB), and points out the large/binary file limitation. This is precisely the kind of runtime behavior an agent needs to know.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is compact and front-loaded: the action and return type come first, followed by the size guard and the alternative-tool routing. Every sentence earns its place and no filler is present.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a one-parameter tool with a fully described schema, the description covers the output format, the size limitation, and the appropriate alternative for unsupported files. No critical operational context is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents the path parameter thoroughly, including an example and the empty-string root convention. The description itself does not add further parameter-level detail, so the baseline of 3 is appropriate.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the verb ('Download and return contents as UTF-8 text') and the resource ('a file'), with concrete use cases like docs, notes, code, and csv. It also distinguishes itself from the sibling dropbox_get_temporary_link by emphasizing text retrieval versus link creation.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It explicitly names the alternative tool for large or binary files — dropbox_get_temporary_link — and provides the condition that should trigger that alternative. This gives an agent clear routing guidance for when this tool is and isn't appropriate.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_searchSearch filesARead-only
Search the account for files and folders matching a query (filename and, where indexed, content). Optionally scope to a folder. If the result has_more, call again with the returned cursor.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| path | No | Restrict to a folder, e.g. "/Marketing". Defaults to whole account. | |
| query | Yes | Search terms, e.g. "q3 budget" or "logo.png". | |
| cursor | No | Continuation cursor from a previous has_more result. | |
| file_status | No | Search "active" (default) or "deleted" items. | |
| max_results | No | ||
| filename_only | No | Match filenames only (skip content matching). |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations provide readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, indicating a safe, read-only operation. The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond these annotations: it reveals that content is searched 'where indexed' and explains the pagination protocol with 'has_more' and 'cursor'. These details inform the agent about result continuation and content matching, which the annotations do not cover. No contradiction with annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is three concise sentences with no fluff. The main action is front-loaded, and the scoping and pagination details are provided efficiently. Every sentence contributes meaning: purpose, optional scoping, and continuation handling.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With 6 parameters and only 1 required, the description covers key nuances: content search, folder scope, and pagination. It does not describe the exact response structure, but the mention of 'has_more' and 'cursor' implies the output format. Given the read-only annotations and schema coverage, the description is largely complete for an agent to call the tool correctly, though a note on result contents could make it fully complete.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is high (83%), so the baseline is 3. The description adds extra meaning by clarifying the query behavior ('where indexed'), the path scope ('Optionally scope to a folder'), and the cursor usage ('call again with the returned cursor'). These enrich the parameter definitions beyond the schema descriptions, particularly for path and cursor.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description explicitly states 'Search the account for files and folders matching a query' – a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from siblings like list_folder by specifying a global search across the account with optional folder scoping. The phrase 'filename and, where indexed, content' clarifies the scope of matching, leaving no ambiguity about what the tool does.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies usage by describing the search behavior and optional folder scope, but it does not explicitly contrast with alternatives like list_folder or get_metadata. There is no 'use this when' or 'instead of' guidance. However, the context of searching across the account and pagination hint at when it is appropriate, so the usage is implied rather than explicit.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
dropbox_uploadUpload fileA
Upload content to a path. Provide either text (inline UTF-8) or localPath (a file on this machine to read). Files at/under ~140 MB go in a single request; larger local files are streamed in chunks via an upload session automatically.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| mode | No | "add" (default) keeps both on conflict; "overwrite" replaces. | |
| path | Yes | Destination path in Dropbox, including filename. | |
| text | No | Inline UTF-8 content to upload. | |
| localPath | No | Absolute path to a local file whose bytes to upload. | |
| autorename | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the annotations, the description discloses that larger local files are automatically streamed via an upload session, which is non-obvious and useful. It does not contradict the readOnly/idempotency hints and does not need to restate the write side effect already implied by readOnlyHint=false.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is two tight sentences that lead with the primary purpose and then pack the two most important behavioral details. No filler or repetition of schema descriptions.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a 5-parameter upload tool with no output schema, the description plus schema covers the essential input modes, conflict behavior via mode, and large-file handling. It could mention return behavior or parent-folder creation, but these are not blocking for an agent to call the tool correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
With 80% schema coverage, the schema already documents most parameters; the description adds the crucial 'either text or localPath' relationship and the automatic chunking threshold, which are not encoded in the schema. It leaves autorename underexplained, but that parameter also lacks an in-schema description, and the added context is valuable.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with 'Upload content to a path', a specific verb and resource, and clearly distinguishes the tool from read/list/delete siblings by its write intent. It also clarifies the two input forms (text or localPath), leaving no ambiguity about what the tool does.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear direction on when to choose inline text versus a local file and explains the ~140 MB threshold for single vs. chunked uploads. It does not explicitly name alternative sibling tools or state when not to use upload, but no other sibling performs uploads, so the guidance is sufficient.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Tool Schema Changelog
Recent tool additions, removals, and schema changes observed during successful MCP inspections. Dates show when Glama detected each change.
16 tool updates
v0.1.0- First observed
dropbox_copy - First observed
dropbox_create_folder - First observed
dropbox_create_shared_link - First observed
dropbox_delete - First observed
dropbox_get_current_account - First observed
dropbox_get_metadata - First observed
dropbox_get_shared_link_metadata - First observed
dropbox_get_space_usage - First observed
dropbox_get_temporary_link - First observed
dropbox_list_folder - First observed
dropbox_list_shared_links - First observed
dropbox_move - First observed
dropbox_read_file - First observed
dropbox_revoke_shared_link - First observed
dropbox_search - First observed
dropbox_upload
TDQS
Each tool has a clear, non-overlapping purpose: folder operations (list, get metadata, create), file operations (move, copy, delete, upload, read, temporary link), search, shared link management (create, list, metadata, revoke), and account/space info. Even get_temporary_link vs read_file are distinct (URL vs content).
All tools follow a consistent verb_noun pattern prefixed with 'dropbox_' (e.g., list_folder, get_metadata, create_shared_link). The verbs (list, get, create, move, copy, delete, read, upload, search, revoke) and nouns are uniform and predictable.
16 tools is slightly above the ideal 3-15 range but appropriate given the comprehensive scope of Dropbox's API (folder, file, search, shared links, account). Each tool earns its place, and none seem redundant.
The surface covers core lifecycle operations for files and folders (create, read, update via upload/overwrite, delete, move/copy), search, and shared link management. Minor omissions like file version history or listing deleted items are acceptable gaps that agents can work around.
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