Paper Lantern — Chat Client Setup Guide
You need your API key (starts with pl_) to get started. If you don't have one, reach out to us at founders@paperlantern.ai.
Your server URL is:
https://mcp.paperlantern.ai/chat/mcp?key=YOUR_KEY
Replace YOUR_KEY with your pl_... key in the instructions below.
Claude.ai
- Go to Settings → Connectors
- Click Add custom connector
- Paste your server URL
- Name it Paper Lantern
- Click Add
You can now use Paper Lantern in any conversation. Try: "use paper lantern to find approaches for [your problem]"
ChatGPT
Requires a ChatGPT Pro, Plus, Business, Enterprise, or Education plan on the web.
Step 1: Enable Developer Mode
- Go to Settings → Apps → Advanced settings
- Toggle on Developer mode
Step 2: Add Paper Lantern as an MCP server
- Go to Settings → Apps → Advanced settings
- Click Create app (next to Advanced settings)
- Name it Paper Lantern
- Paste your server URL and save
- Your app will appear under Drafts in app settings
Step 3: Use in a conversation
- Start a new chat and click the + (Plus) menu in the chat input area
- Select Developer Mode → choose your Paper Lantern app
Try: "use paper lantern to find approaches for [your problem]"
Other MCP Clients
Paper Lantern uses Streamable HTTP transport. Any MCP client that supports this transport will work — just point it at your server URL.
Available Tools
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
explore_approaches | Find research-backed approaches for your problem |
deep_dive | Go deeper on a specific approach |
compare_approaches | Compare multiple approaches side by side |
check_feasibility | Check if an approach is feasible for your use case |
Troubleshooting
"403 Forbidden" — Your API key is missing, incorrect, or inactive. Double-check that ?key=pl_... is included in the URL.
"Connection refused" — The server may be temporarily down. Try again in a few minutes.
Tools not showing up — Some clients require a restart after adding an MCP server.