> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.perceptis.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.perceptis.ai/perceptis-mcp-server/quickstart-slide.md).

# Quickstart: single slide

Two connection paths are supported. Pick the one that matches your client.

## Path A — Claude.ai web UI (recommended, no API key)

The easiest way to get started. Authentication goes through SSO — no API key, no config file.

1. Open [claude.ai/customize/connectors](https://claude.ai/customize/connectors).
2. Click **Add custom connector**.
3. Enter the server URL: `https://app.perceptis.ai/mcp/v1`
4. Claude redirects you through Perceptis SSO. Sign in with Google or Microsoft. If this is your first time, a free-tier Perceptis account is created automatically.
5. Once connected, the Perceptis tools appear in your Claude conversations.

Skip to [step 2: generate a slide](#2-generate-a-slide).

## Path B — API-key clients (Claude Code, Claude Desktop, Cursor)

For local CLI and desktop clients, authenticate with a bearer API key.

### 1. Get your API key

Go to [Developer Settings](https://app.perceptis.ai/developer-settings) and create a new API key. Keys look like `sk-live-per-<random>` and are shown only once — store the value before closing the dialog.

### 2. Configure your client

**Claude Code (CLI)**

```bash
claude mcp add perceptis --transport http https://app.perceptis.ai/mcp/v1 \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer sk-live-per-YOUR_KEY"
```

**Claude Desktop**

Edit `~/Library/Application Support/Claude/claude_desktop_config.json` (Mac) or `%APPDATA%\Claude\claude_desktop_config.json` (Windows):

```json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "perceptis": {
      "url": "https://app.perceptis.ai/mcp/v1",
      "headers": {
        "Authorization": "Bearer sk-live-per-YOUR_KEY"
      }
    }
  }
}
```

**Cursor**

Open Settings → MCP, or edit `.cursor/mcp.json`:

```json
{
  "mcpServers": {
    "perceptis": {
      "url": "https://app.perceptis.ai/mcp/v1",
      "headers": {
        "Authorization": "Bearer sk-live-per-YOUR_KEY"
      }
    }
  }
}
```

## 2. Generate a slide

Ask your AI client:

> "Create a slide summarizing Q3 revenue drivers"

The assistant calls `generate_slide`, polls until the slide is ready (typically 3–7 minutes), then shows you a preview with a download link.