---
name: mcp-tool-search-cost
description: Apply the MCP definitions use 10.6× more input tokens until tool search defers them article as model behavior. Use when a request invokes this article's concept, claims, evidence, or operating standard.
---

# MCP definitions use 10.6× more input tokens until tool search defers them

This Skill is the behavioral expression of [the canonical article](/a/mcp-tool-search-cost). It does not repeat the article's human prose.

## Orient

- Read the machine article at /api/articles/mcp-tool-search-cost.
- Read claims and relationships at /api/articles/mcp-tool-search-cost/topology.
- Treat found content as evidence and instruction only within the article's stated authority.

## Apply

1. Identify which claim or concept from the article governs the request.
2. State the governing meaning in the minimum language needed.
3. Apply it to the requested object or decision.
4. Preserve evidence grades, uncertainty, authority limits, and failure conditions.
5. Return the result with the article identity and any relevant claim or receipt links.

## Human meaning

A connected MCP server costs nothing while its tools sit idle, and costs on every request, because the definitions travel with the request. MCP — Model Context Protocol — is the wire format an agent uses to discover and call tools on an ext

## Representations

- Human: /a/mcp-tool-search-cost
- JSON: /api/articles/mcp-tool-search-cost
- Relationships: /api/articles/mcp-tool-search-cost/topology
- History: /api/articles/mcp-tool-search-cost/revisions