Command to Add Sequential Thinking MCP to Claude Code

6 min read.

If you just need the command, here it is:

claude mcp add sequential-thinking npx -- -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-sequential-thinking

That command works, but in real life people still get stuck after copy-paste. This guide helps you install it, confirm it is really active, and fix the common issues fast.

What this MCP server does

Sequential Thinking MCP gives Claude a structured way to think through multi-step tasks. It is useful for:

  • debugging complicated issues
  • breaking big tasks into smaller actions
  • planning code changes with clearer reasoning

If your prompts are short and simple, you may not notice much difference. But for long problem solving sessions, it can help a lot.

Before you run the command

Make sure these basics are ready:

  • Claude Code CLI is installed and opens normally
  • Node.js and npx are available in your terminal
  • internet connection is available for first-time package download

Quick checks:

claude --version
node -v
npx -v

If one of them fails, fix that first. The MCP command usually fails because one of these tools is missing.

Install Sequential Thinking MCP

Run this in your terminal:

claude mcp add sequential-thinking npx -- -y @modelcontextprotocol/server-sequential-thinking

What each part means:

  • sequential-thinking is the local name in your MCP list
  • npx -- -y ... runs the package without manual prompt
  • @modelcontextprotocol/server-sequential-thinking is the server package

Verify it was added

After install, check your MCP list:

claude mcp list

You should see sequential-thinking in the output.

If you do not see it, run the add command one more time and watch the error message carefully.

Test it quickly

Try a prompt that needs real step-by-step thinking, for example:

I have a flaky Jest test that fails only in CI.
Please debug it step by step and tell me the top 3 root causes first.

If the response becomes more structured and reasoned in stages, your setup is likely working.

Good naming and maintenance tips

  • keep the name simple: sequential-thinking
  • avoid creating duplicate aliases for same server
  • if behavior changes unexpectedly, remove and add it again

Do I need to install this globally?

No. This command uses npx, so it can run the package without global install.

Can I rename it to something else?

Yes, but keep it short and clear. It makes troubleshooting easier later.

Is this only for coding prompts?

No. It also helps on planning, analysis, and other multi-step tasks.

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