The present technology is related to methods for detecting genetic alterations underlying intracranial neoplasms such as pituitary adenomas, meningiomas, and craniopharyngiomas. The methods disclosed herein are useful in determining whether a patient harboring an intracranial tumor will benefit from or is predicted to be responsive to treatment with an individual therapeutic agent or a specific combination of therapeutic agents. Kits for use in practicing the methods are also provided.