How to Install PlaceholderAPI on Your Minecraft Server
Add dynamic placeholders that other plugins use for custom text
Add dynamic placeholders that other plugins use for custom text
What is PlaceholderAPI?
PlaceholderAPI (PAPI) provides placeholders like %player_name% or %server_online% that other plugins insert into messages, scoreboards, tab lists and more. Many popular plugins require it.
Getting Started & Installation
- Go to Minecraft, and then go to the "Plugin Installer" tab.
- Search for "PlaceholderAPI" and install the latest version.
- Restart your server so it loads.
Installing Expansions
Placeholders come in expansions. Install them with:
/papi ecloud download <expansion>
Common examples:
/papi ecloud download Player/papi ecloud download Server/papi ecloud download Vault
Then reload:
/papi reload
Testing Placeholders
Check what a placeholder returns with:
/papi parse me %player_name%
The result prints in chat, which makes it easy to confirm an expansion works before using it elsewhere.
Common Placeholders
| Placeholder | Returns |
|---|---|
%player_name% |
The player's name. |
%player_world% |
The world the player is in. |
%server_online% |
Current player count. |
%server_max_players% |
Max player slots. |
%vault_balance% |
Player's money (needs Vault). |
Important Considerations
- Plugin Support: TAB, DiscordSRV, scoreboards and many other plugins read PAPI placeholders.
- Expansions Cloud: The ecloud command downloads expansions directly; no file uploads needed.
- Percent Signs: Placeholders always wrap in % signs in whatever plugin uses them.
Conclusion
PlaceholderAPI is the glue behind custom text on servers. Install it, grab the expansions you need, and other plugins can display live data anywhere.
Similarly, if you are having any type of issue or problem with your server at MCServerHost you can always get in touch with us by joining our Discord server or writing to us at support@mcserverhost.com.
Related guides
- How to Install Plugins on Your Server: Installing plugins on your server is quick and straightforward. This guide covers the two main methods to get your plugins up and running.
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