# Serena MCP Selection

> Rules for selecting between the LSP and JetBrains Serena MCP servers when both are configured. Default to LSP unless the user explicitly opts in to JetBrains.

- Skill: `ceilidhboy/serena-mcp-selection` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add ceilidhboy/serena-mcp-selection`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/ceilidhboy/serena-mcp-selection/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: AI & ML
- Author: ceilidhboy (https://skillmd.com/u/ceilidhboy)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/ceilidhboy/serena-mcp-selection

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# Serena MCP Server Selection

## Rule

When both `Serena (LSP)` and `Serena (JetBrains)` MCP servers are available, **always default to LSP** unless the user explicitly tells you to use the JetBrains backend.

## Guidance

- Use `mcp({ server: "Serena (LSP)", ... })` for all routine code navigation, editing, and search.
- Only switch to `mcp({ server: "Serena (JetBrains)", ... })` when the user says something like *"use the JetBrains version"*, *"switch to JetBrains"*, or otherwise explicitly opts in.
- JetBrains may be useful for deep sessions on a single project where the IDE is open alongside the agent. It is not robust for multi-project workflows.
- There is no auto-detection or fallback logic. The user chooses.