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Canvas LMS MCP – Local Edition

by Fireiscoolsolo
OverviewSchemaSourceRelated ServersDiscussionsAdmin
JavaScript
Local

Get Course Permissions

get_course_permissions
Read-onlyIdempotent

Check what your Canvas token can do in a specific course, such as posting discussions or sending messages. Read-only; use it before write actions to avoid partial failures.

Instructions

Show what your token is allowed to do in a course, such as posting to discussions or sending messages. Read-only. Call it before a write tool to avoid an action failing halfway.

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
course_idYesCanvas course ID, a numeric string such as "12345". Get it from list_courses.

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed1 schema field changedv1.0.2
    • changedInput schema / properties / course_id / description
      Previous value: -"Canvas course ID"New value: +"Canvas course ID, a numeric string such as \"12345\". Get it from list_courses."
  2. First observedv1.0.1

TDQS

A4.5/5.0
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

While annotations already declare the tool is read-only and non-destructive, the description adds vital behavioral context by giving examples of permissions ('posting to discussions or sending messages') and explaining the tactical benefit of its usage.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is perfectly sized for the tool's complexity. Both sentences are essential and avoid jargon or fluff, front-loading the core purpose and the critical workflow advice.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the simplicity of the schema (1 parameter, no output schema), the description provides everything an agent needs: the function, the constraints (read-only), and the optimal place in a conversational flow.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Since the input schema has 100% description coverage and only one parameter, the description adds no semantic value over the schema. It correctly hits the baseline of 3 for simple, fully covered parameters.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's function: showing 'what your token is allowed to do in a course.' It specifies the resource (course) and the action (checking permissions), making it very distinct from sibling write tools.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The definition provides explicit workflow guidance: 'Call it before a write tool to avoid an action failing halfway.' This prevents the agent from attempting destructive actions without first verifying permissions.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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