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dropbox-mcp

dropbox-mcp

Un servidor Model Context Protocol que ofrece a un agente LLM acceso de lectura/escritura a una cuenta de Dropbox —personal o Business/Team— a través de la API v2 de Dropbox.

El problema

El cliente de escritorio de Dropbox resuelve la sincronización de archivos. No resuelve dar a un agente de IA acceso controlado a una cuenta de la que no tiene una copia local. Un agente que solo puede ver carpetas sincronizadas no puede buscar en un archivo de equipo de 2 TB, no puede crear un enlace de uso compartido y no puede leer un archivo que nunca recibió.

Este servidor cierra esa brecha. Habla directamente con la API HTTP de Dropbox, por lo que funciona contra toda la cuenta sin sincronizar un solo byte en disco, y expone ese acceso como un conjunto fijo de herramientas MCP en lugar de un cliente HTTP en bruto: el agente obtiene dropbox_search, no fetch.

Related MCP server: Dropbox MCP Server

Arquitectura

Cuatro módulos de herramientas (files, search, sharing, account) se registran contra un único McpServer que habla MCP mediante stdio. Todos los módulos pasan por un único cliente HTTP que se encarga de las dos cosas que la API de Dropbox hace complicadas: el ciclo de vida del token de OAuth y el espacio de nombres del equipo. Los módulos se pueden desactivar individualmente at startup mediante DROPBOX_DISABLED_MODULES, de modo que un despliegue que no debería poder crear enlaces públicos para compartir parece que no registrar el módulo: la capacidad no está, no se limita a desaconsejarse.

  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.com

Dos familias de endpoints, deliberadamente mantenidas como funciones separadas: los endpoints de tipo RPC son JSON de entrada/salida, mientras que los endpoints de tipo Content ponen sus argumentos en una cabecera HTTP y usan el cuerpo para los bytes del archivo. Hecirlas colapsar en un único request() genérico habría implicado un parámetro que cambia silenciosamente el lugar donde van los argumentos, así que se mantienen separadas.

La parte realmente difícil

En un equipo de Dropbox Business, la API usa por defecto el espacio de nombres home del miembro. Cada carpeta de equipo — que es donde está el trabajo compartido real — situación en el espacio de nombres root del equipo y simplemente es invisible. list_folder sobre "" devuelve únicamente los archivos privados del miembro, sin error y sin indicio de que la mayor parte de la cuenta falta. Pieces un problema de permisos, pero no lo es.

La solución es enviar una cabecera Dropbox-API-Path-Root que señale al espacio de nombres root del equipo, cuyo id se obtiene de users/get_current_account. Eso introduce una trampa de recursión: el helper RPC genérico añade la cabecera path-root a cada llamada, y resolverla llamando a get_current_account a través de sí mismo significa que la resolución de cabecera se llama a sí misma para siempre. resolveRootNamespaceId() emite por tanto una llamada fetch deliberadamente desnuda que evita el helper, y el resultado se guarda en memoria para que la llamada adicional no ocurra una vez por proceso (src/client.ts).

Una versión más pequeña de la misma clase de problema: los endpoints de Content-Type pasan sus argumentos en Dropbox-API-Arg, y las cabeceras HTTP son ASCII. Cualquier archivo con un carácter acentuado o con un emoji en su nombre provoca una excepción dentro de fetch en lugar de un error. apiArg() escapa todos los puntos de código no ASCII a \uXXXX antes de construir la cabecera.

Lo que haría diferente

  1. Sin pruebas. Esto se construyó y verificó a mano contra una cuenta real. La ruta de renovación del token, el reintento de 401 y las condiciones del límite de subida por bloques son exactamente el tipo de código que se debe controlled by tests con un transporte simulado: son las partes que fallan raramente y de forma cara.

  2. La caché de path-root es por proceso e nunca se invalida. Adecuada para un servidor stdio que un host reboot con libertad; incorrecta para cualquier proceso de larga vida en el que un usuario pueda moverse entre equipos.

  3. dropbox_delete se expone sin ningún modo de confirmación. La retención propia de Dropbox permite recuperarla, pero una oferta destructiva debería signalarlo en su esquema en lugar de que el host tenga que preguntar.

  4. Los errores se convierten en cadenas. Devolver además un código de error estructurado junto con el mensaje le permitiría a un agente ramificarse entre "límite de velocidad" y "no encontrado" sin tener que parsear la prosa.

Puesta en marcha

Requiere Node 20+ (desarrollado en Node 24) y una cuenta de Dropbox.

1. Crear una aplicación de Dropbox

  1. Ve a https://www.dropbox.com/developers/apps y elige Crear app.

  2. En Acceso elige Acceso por ámbitos y Acceso completo a Dropbox.

  3. En Permisos, marca account_info.read, files.metadata.read, files.metadata.write, files.content.read, files.content.write, sharing.read, sharing.write y luego Enviar.

  4. En Configuración, copia la clave de la app y el secreto de la app.

2. Comppila y autoriza

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 .env

npm run auth imprime una URL de consentimiento, recibe el código que pegas y lo canjea por un token de actualización. El servidor uses a partir de ese momento canjearlo por tokens de acceso de corta duración.

3. Regístrate con un host MCP

{
  "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"
      }
    }
  }
}

Reinicia el host y pregúntale algo como "¿Cuál es mi uso de espacio de Dropbox?".

Para probar el servidor sin un host:

npm run inspect           # @modelcontextprotocol/inspector

Herramientas

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 (divide automáticamente los archivos grandes en bloques mediante sesiones de subida).

search — dropbox_search en nombres de archivo y contenido, en toda la cuenta o acotada a una carpeta.

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.

Configuración

Todos los ajustes se realizan por variables de entorno; consulta .env.example para la lista completa comentada, incluyendo el control de namespace (DROPBOX_PATH_ROOT), el límite de tamaño de lectura (DROPBOX_MAX_READ_BYTES), el tamaño de bloque de subida y las cabeceras de suplantación de la aplicación del equipo.

Licencia

MIT — ver LICENSE.

Available Tools

16 tools
dropbox_copyCopyB

Copy a file or folder to a new path.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
to_pathYes
from_pathYesDropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root.
autorenameNo

TDQS

B3/5.0
Behavior2/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness2/5

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.

Parameters2/5

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.

Purpose4/5

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.

Usage Guidelines3/5

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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesDropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root.
autorenameNo

TDQS

B3.3/5.0
Behavior2/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness2/5

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.

Parameters2/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines3/5

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_deleteDeleteA
Destructive

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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesDropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root.

TDQS

A4.7/5.0
Behavior5/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness5/5

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.

Parameters4/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines4/5

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 accountA
Read-only

Return the authenticated account (name, email, account id, team). Good for confirming the server is connected to the right Dropbox.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No parameters

TDQS

A4.5/5.0
Behavior4/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness5/5

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.

Parameters4/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines4/5

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 metadataA
Read-only

Get metadata (size, modified time, id, etc.) for a single file or folder.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesDropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root.
include_deletedNo

TDQS

A3.8/5.0
Behavior3/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness3/5

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.

Parameters2/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines4/5

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 usageA
Read-only

Return storage usage and allocation for the account.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No parameters

TDQS

A4/5.0
Behavior3/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness4/5

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.

Parameters4/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines3/5

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_list_folderList folderA
Read-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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathNoFolder path. Defaults to root ("").
limitNo
cursorNoContinuation cursor from a previous truncated result.
recursiveNo

TDQS

A4.4/5.0
Behavior4/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness4/5

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.

Parameters4/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines4/5

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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
to_pathYesDestination path (this is also how you rename).
from_pathYesCurrent path of the item.
autorenameNoIf the destination is taken, rename instead of failing.

TDQS

A3.7/5.0
Behavior3/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness3/5

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.

Parameters3/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines3/5

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)A
Read-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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesDropbox path, e.g. "/Marketing/2025/brief.pdf". Use "" for the account root.

TDQS

A4.7/5.0
Behavior5/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness5/5

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.

Parameters3/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines5/5

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_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.

ParametersJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
modeNo"add" (default) keeps both on conflict; "overwrite" replaces.
pathYesDestination path in Dropbox, including filename.
textNoInline UTF-8 content to upload.
localPathNoAbsolute path to a local file whose bytes to upload.
autorenameNo

TDQS

A4.4/5.0
Behavior4/5

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.

Conciseness5/5

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.

Completeness4/5

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.

Parameters4/5

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.

Purpose5/5

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.

Usage Guidelines4/5

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.

  1. 16 tool updatesv0.1.0
    • First observeddropbox_copy
    • First observeddropbox_create_folder
    • First observeddropbox_create_shared_link
    • First observeddropbox_delete
    • First observeddropbox_get_current_account
    • First observeddropbox_get_metadata
    • First observeddropbox_get_shared_link_metadata
    • First observeddropbox_get_space_usage
    • First observeddropbox_get_temporary_link
    • First observeddropbox_list_folder
    • First observeddropbox_list_shared_links
    • First observeddropbox_move
    • First observeddropbox_read_file
    • First observeddropbox_revoke_shared_link
    • First observeddropbox_search
    • First observeddropbox_upload

TDQS

A3.9/5.0

Scored across 16 tools

Disambiguation5/5

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).

Naming Consistency5/5

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.

Tool Count4/5

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.

Completeness4/5

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.

Maintenance

ActivitySlowing
ResponsivenessNo issues

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