> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.openfinance.tech/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Skills vs MCP

> Two components, two different jobs

OpenFinance ships two things, and they do different jobs.

## MCP server, the live tool layer

The MCP server is what lets the agent fetch real prices, simulate a trade, or build a transaction. Without it, the agent has no hands.

## Skills, the static playbooks

Skills teach the agent **how** to use OpenFinance well, when to use isolated vs cross margin, how to size a Hyperliquid perp, how to interpret a Polymarket order book, how to chain `previewTrade` before `buildTransaction`. Without them, the agent has hands but no judgement.

## Which should I install?

You can install either independently. For the best experience, install both.

| Component  | Purpose                             | Install with                             |
| ---------- | ----------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------- |
| MCP server | Live tools and data access          | Editor or chat-client config             |
| Skills     | Playbooks for using tools correctly | `npx skills add openfinance-tech/skills` |

## Next

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Get an API Key" icon="key" href="/getting-started/api-keys">
    If you need wallet-scoped tools.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Install Skills" icon="book" href="/getting-started/installing-skills">
    Give your agent the playbooks.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>