weReci
Server Details
Your Recipes, Beautifully Kept.
weReci MCP server lets Claude and other MCP clients work with your personal weReci cookbook, the recipes you've imported from the web, social video and scanned family books.
Interactive UI in the chat. weReci supports MCP Apps, so in clients that support it, tools return live views instead of plain text: recipe cards, shopping lists and your recipe graph. Clients without MCP Apps support get the same results as text.
Find and read recipes: search your collection in plain language, open any recipe in full, or get an overview of what's in your cookbook. Cook with them: scale a recipe to any serving count, with cooking adjustments as well as amounts. Get substitution suggestions with ratios and caveats.
Explore connections: browse your recipe graph (shared ingredients, techniques and cuisines), trace the connection between two recipes, and look up where a dish sits on the cuisine map.
Themed collections: list the themed groups weReci curates from your cookbook, or ask it to reshuffle them.
Shop: build a shopping list from one or more recipes, add or update items, and read the list back.
Share: email a recipe to someone. Longer jobs like conceit reshuffles run in the background, with tools to check their progress. Everything is scoped to your own cookbook, or to a shared one you've joined.
- Status
- Healthy
- OAuth
- Works in Glama
- Last Tested
- Transport
- Streamable HTTP · MCP 2025-11-25
- URL
TDQS
Scored across 21 tools
Most tools have distinct purposes, and the descriptions are very precise, but there is real overlap between reshuffle_conceits and start_background_job (both can trigger a conceit reshuffle, with nearly identical guidance), and both add_to_shopping_list and update_shopping_list can add plain one-off items, differentiated only by which list they target. An agent could misselect between these pairs without careful reading.
Every tool follows a consistent verb_noun snake_case convention (e.g., get_recipe, list_conceits, traverse_graph, update_shopping_list). There is no mixing of camelCase or inconsistent verb styles. The pattern is uniform and predictable across all 21 tools.
At 21 tools, the server is on the heavier side, with several sub-domains (shopping, graph, cuisine, recipes, background jobs). The count is borderline: it feels heavy but each tool has a distinct job except for the duplication between reshuffle_conceits and start_background_job, which could be consolidated. A more focused set of 15–18 would feel tighter.
The server covers retrieval, search, graph traversal, shopping list management, cuisine lookup, scaling, and substitution well. However, there is no way to create, update, or delete recipes/entries from the collection, which is a notable lifecycle gap for a recipe archive. The curation shelves can be reshuffled but individual entries cannot be edited, making the surface feel incomplete for full management.
Available Tools
21 toolsadd_to_shopping_listAdd to your shopping listAIdempotentInspect
Put things ON the user's own shopping list (List It) — the running list they carry in the app. Call it ONLY when the user explicitly asks to add, save, or collect for later ("put those on my list", "save the ingredients for Sunday", "also add paper towels") — never speculatively, and never as a follow-up they didn't ask for. Pass recipes by id in recipe_ids (their ingredient lines go on), and/or plain one-off items in items ("paper towels", "2 lemons") — at least one of the two. This tool only COLLECTS: to propose a consolidated list or hand one off for shopping (cart, email), use build_shopping_list instead. Re-adding a recipe replaces its lines (safe to repeat). Pass pantry staples the user keeps in 'exclude' and mention what you skipped. recipe_ids MUST be copied exactly from search_recipes hits, the retrieved set, or list_conceits members — never invented. share decides WHERE the lines go: the user's shared list (visible to Home Assistant and a cookbook partner) or the list on their phone; leave it out unless they said.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| items | No | One-off things the user named that aren't a recipe — plain lines as they said them, e.g. "paper towels", "2 lemons". Omit when only adding recipes. | |
| share | No | true: put the lines on the user's SHARED list — the one Home Assistant, connected assistants and a cookbook partner can see and tick; if the user isn't on it yet this also joins them to it, and their app then shows that list until they stop sharing. false: keep them private on the user's phone. Omit unless the user said which — the default is their own setting. | |
| exclude | No | Ingredients to leave off — pantry staples the user keeps, or items they said to drop. Plain names, e.g. "soy sauce". Applies to recipe lines only, never to explicit items. | |
| recipe_ids | No | Up to 8 recipe point ids, exactly as returned by your tools. Omit when only adding one-off items. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the annotations (readOnly=false, idempotent=true, destructive=false), it discloses that re-adding a recipe replaces its lines, that recipe_ids must come from specific tool results and never be invented, and that share controls whether lines land on the shared or phone list with a joining side effect. These are meaningful behavioral details that the annotations alone do not provide.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is dense but every sentence carries operational guidance: call conditions, parameter usage, alternatives, idempotency, and provenance. The core action and the most important guardrail are front-loaded before details.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a 4-parameter mutation tool with no output schema, the description covers selection, invocation, side effects, and the two key sibling behaviors. It also provides explicit no-go cases and exact recipe-id provenance, so an agent has what it needs to invoke safely and correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Even though schema descriptions cover 100% of parameters, the description adds cross-parameter constraints such as "at least one of the two", explains that recipe ingredient lines go onto the list, and instructs the agent to pass exclusions and "mention what you skipped". It also adds provenance requirements for recipe_ids not present in the schema.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with a specific action and resource: "Put things ON the user's own shopping list (List It)", and it clarifies the collection-only role. It also distinguishes itself from build_shopping_list by saying that consolidated/hand-off flows belong there, so an agent can tell them apart without opening schemas.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives explicit call conditions: only when the user asks to "add, save, or collect for later", and explicit prohibitions: "never speculatively, and never as a follow-up they didn't ask for". It names build_shopping_list as the alternative for proposing or handing off a list, and sets the at-least-one-parameter and share-omission rules.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
build_shopping_listBuild a shopping listAInspect
Compose a consolidated grocery list from 1-8 recipes in the collection and hand it off for shopping — nothing is stored; the list is an artifact of this conversation. ALWAYS call with mode 'propose' first and show the user the returned list. Only after they explicitly approve in a LATER turn may you call a send mode: 'cart' (adds the items to their own linked Kroger-family cart — Fred Meyer, Mariano's, Ralphs… — requires the grocery:cart permission; asks them to connect their Kroger account the first time), 'coupons' (Pete's Fresh COUPON mode — clips this week's matching specials to their loyalty card; it can ONLY match items currently on coupon, so most items staying unmatched is normal; same grocery:cart permission) or 'email' (mails them the list, forwardable to whoever shops — requires the email:send permission). NEVER propose and send in the same turn. Pass pantry staples they keep in 'exclude'. recipe_ids MUST be copied exactly from search_recipes or list_conceits results — never invented.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| zip | No | cart mode: US zip for first-time store selection. Only needed when the tool asks for it — the store is picked from the user's location when that is known, and remembered after. | |
| mode | Yes | propose = show the consolidated list in chat (always first); cart = add items to the user's Kroger cart (only after the user approved the proposal in a previous turn); coupons = clip matching Pete's Fresh weekly specials to the user's loyalty card (same approval rule; coupon-only — most items won't match); email = send the proposal email (same approval rule); link = create the Instacart page now (same approval rule). | |
| title | No | Optional list title in the user's words, e.g. "Sunday dinner with Ramona". | |
| exclude | No | Ingredients to leave off — pantry staples the user keeps, or items they said to drop. Plain names, e.g. "soy sauce". | |
| recipe_ids | Yes | 1-8 recipe point ids, exactly as returned by your tools. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations provide only readOnlyHint=false, idempotentHint=false, and destructiveHint=false, which is minimal. The description compensates fully by disclosing that nothing is stored, that specific permissions (grocery:cart, email:send) are required, that the first use of cart mode may prompt account connection, and that coupons mode can only match items on coupon so most items remaining unmatched is normal. This exceeds what annotations offer and gives the agent a complete picture of side effects and conditions.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is long but every sentence carries essential operational information. It is front-loaded with the core action and the propose-first rule. While it could be formatted with bullet points for easier scanning, the density is appropriate given the complexity of the tool's modes and permissions. There is no redundancy or fluff, so it earns a high score, though slightly below perfect due to the dense single-paragraph structure.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
The description covers all aspects needed for correct usage: the action, the sequencing requirement, all send modes and their permissions, the exclusion parameter semantics, the recipe_ids provenance rule, and the fact that nothing is stored. It even anticipates common pitfalls like unmatched items in coupons mode. For a tool with this complexity and no output schema, the description is remarkably complete.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Although the schema already provides detailed descriptions for all parameters (100% coverage), the tool description adds significant meaning beyond the schema: it explains the propose-first workflow that dictates how the 'mode' parameter must be used, clarifies the coupon matching limitation for the 'coupons' mode, and reinforces that recipe_ids must come from specific tools. This contextual guidance is not present in the schema and is essential for correct invocation.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool's purpose: composing a consolidated grocery list from 1-8 recipes and handing it off for shopping. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like get_shopping_list or update_shopping_list by emphasizing the build-and-handoff nature. The verb 'compose' and resource 'shopping list' are specific and unambiguous.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description provides explicit usage rules: always call with mode 'propose' first, show the user, then wait for explicit approval before using send modes. It lists each send mode with its conditions and permissions, and explicitly says 'NEVER propose and send in the same turn'. It also instructs that recipe_ids must be copied exactly from search_recipes or list_conceits results. This is comprehensive and leaves no ambiguity about when and how to use the tool.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
find_graph_connectionFind connection between nodesARead-onlyInspect
Explain HOW two things in the archive are related: the shortest chain of relationships between any two nodes — two recipes (shared cookbook? shared ingredient?), a person and a recipe, an appliance and an author. Returns the labeled path or reports they're unconnected. Node ids are ':' — e.g. 'entry:' (prefix a search_recipes hit id with 'entry:'), 'ingredient:brown-sugar', 'author:mother-in-law', 'appliance:oven', 'user:'. User-supplied metadata is traversable too: 'tag:' (a shared free-form label) and 'property::' (a shared key=value, e.g. 'property:region:alaska') — every entry carrying that tag/value links to the same node. Recipes with named sub-preparations carry 'component::' nodes (HAS_COMPONENT from the entry; the component links to its own ingredients/steps) — e.g. "what else uses this sauce?" is one hop.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| to | Yes | Second node id (bare recipe ids auto-resolve). | |
| from | Yes | First node id (bare recipe ids auto-resolve). | |
| edge_types | No | Restrict the path to these relationship types. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations declare readOnlyHint=true, and the description aligns by saying it 'Returns the labeled path or reports they're unconnected' — a read-only explanation operation. It adds useful behavioral context: it returns the shortest chain, reports unconnected cases, and explains how user-supplied metadata nodes behave. It doesn't mention performance or limits, but for a read-only graph query the description covers the key behavior.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is dense but well-organized: it starts with the core purpose, then gives the node-id format, then explains special node types. Every sentence adds useful information. It's longer than average, but the complexity of the node-id system justifies the length. Could be slightly tightened, but no wasted sentences.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a read-only graph query with no output schema, the description covers the essential context: what the tool does, how to format node ids, how special metadata nodes work, and what the return is (labeled path or unconnected report). It doesn't explain edge_types semantics in detail, but the enum values are self-explanatory and the schema documents them. The description is complete enough for an agent to call this tool correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents all three parameters. The description adds significant value by explaining the node-id format ('<type>:<key>') with concrete examples and how bare recipe ids auto-resolve. It also explains the semantics of special node types like 'tag:', 'property:', and 'component:' — meaning beyond the schema's terse descriptions.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with a specific verb ('Explain HOW') and a precise resource ('the shortest chain of relationships between any two nodes'), then gives concrete examples of node pairs. It clearly distinguishes itself from sibling tools like traverse_graph by focusing on shortest-path explanation rather than general traversal.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives rich context on when to use the tool: to explain relationships between any two archive entities, with examples like 'what else uses this sauce?' It doesn't explicitly name alternatives or exclusions, but the node-id format guidance and relationship examples make the intended use clear. It could be stronger by explicitly contrasting with traverse_graph.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_background_jobCheck a background jobARead-onlyInspect
Check a job started with start_background_job. Returns state "running", "done" (with the run's result) or "failed" (with the reason). A run whose invocation died is reported as failed rather than left running forever, so it is safe to poll until this stops saying running.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| job_id | Yes | The job id from start_background_job. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description discloses important behavior: a job whose invocation died is reported as 'failed' rather than remaining 'running' forever. This tells the agent that polling will eventually terminate, which is valuable behavioral context not available from annotations alone.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is exceptionally concise: two sentences that state the tool's purpose, return values, and failure semantics. Every sentence adds essential information, and the most important usage detail is front-loaded.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple one-parameter polling tool with readOnlyHint and no output schema, this description covers everything needed: what it checks, what states are returned, and how failures are handled. No critical information is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already fully describes the single required parameter, job_id, as 'The job id from start_background_job.' The description reinforces this by referring to jobs started with start_background_job, but does not add significant new meaning beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate given 100% schema coverage.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool's purpose: checking a background job started with start_background_job. It specifies the resource (background job) and the action (check), and defines the possible return states. This differentiates it from sibling tools like start_background_job and get_scale_job.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description provides clear usage context: it is meant for checking jobs created by start_background_job and is safe to poll until the status stops being 'running'. It implies the polling pattern without explicitly listing alternatives or exclusions, but the guidance is sufficient for correct use.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_graph_nodeGraph node detailsARead-onlyInspect
Everything directly connected to one node, grouped by relationship: an entry's author/owner/source/ingredients/appliances/tools, an author's works, an ingredient's recipes, a user's collection. Exact and complete (unlike semantic search). Node ids are ':' — e.g. 'entry:' (prefix a search_recipes hit id with 'entry:'), 'ingredient:brown-sugar', 'author:mother-in-law', 'appliance:oven', 'user:'. User-supplied metadata is traversable too: 'tag:' (a shared free-form label) and 'property::' (a shared key=value, e.g. 'property:region:alaska') — every entry carrying that tag/value links to the same node. Recipes with named sub-preparations carry 'component::' nodes (HAS_COMPONENT from the entry; the component links to its own ingredients/steps) — e.g. "what else uses this sauce?" is one hop.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| id | Yes | Graph node id, or a bare recipe id from search_recipes (auto-prefixed with 'entry:'). |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description discloses that results are exact and complete, returns are grouped by relationship, node IDs follow a type:key convention, bare search_recipes IDs are auto-prefixed with 'entry:', and metadata/component nodes are traversable. This is substantial non-obvious behavior that an agent needs to know.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is long but every sentence carries necessary information, starting with purpose and exactness, then id syntax, then special node types. Examples are used instead of prose, and there is no filler or tautology.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
The description fully covers how to identify and invoke against a node, including unusual id types and auto-prefixing. Without an output schema, however, the exact response shape beyond 'grouped by relationship' is left somewhat implicit; pagination or limit behavior is also not mentioned. Minor gap.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Although the schema already documents the single 'id' parameter at 100% coverage, the description adds concrete id formats and examples for entry, ingredient, author, appliance, user, tag, property, and component nodes. This goes well beyond the schema's one-line description and removes ambiguity about how to construct the parameter.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a precise action and resource: return everything directly connected to a single graph node, grouped by relationship type. The one-node scope and 'Exact and complete (unlike semantic search)' line separate it from siblings such as traverse_graph, find_graph_connection, and get_graph_overview without needing to open their schemas.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description makes the intended use clear: when you need exact, complete one-hop graph relationships, and contrasts this with semantic search. It does not explicitly name alternatives like traverse_graph or provide when-not-to-use rules, but the examples ('what else uses this sauce?') give concrete invocation context.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_graph_overviewConnections graph overviewARead-onlyInspect
Orient yourself in the family-archive graph: node/edge counts by type plus the most-connected ingredients, appliances, tools, authors, sources, tags, and properties (with how many entries each touches). Great for finding structural threads — 'the 12 recipes that all use molasses', 'everything from the mother-in-law's cookbook', 'all entries tagged heirloom or where region=alaska'. Cheap; call at most once.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already mark it read-only; the description adds behavioral context: it is cheap, intended for one-time use, and returns aggregate counts plus per-entity entry counts. No contradiction with readOnlyHint.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is compact, front-loaded with the core purpose, and every clause adds information (output contents, use cases, cost). The examples earn their place by clarifying the tool's analytical value.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a no-parameter, read-only overview tool with no output schema, the description fully explains what is returned and how it can be used, including concrete query examples. Nothing critical is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
There are zero parameters, so the schema fully covers inputs; the description has no need to describe parameters. It focuses on output semantics instead, which is appropriate for a no-argument tool.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description names a specific verb ('Orient yourself'), a specific resource ('family-archive graph'), and details the exact output (node/edge counts by type, most-connected entities with counts). The examples distinguish it from sibling node/traversal tools like get_graph_node and traverse_graph.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear context: use it to get an overview and find structural threads, and explicitly advises 'call at most once.' It does not explicitly name alternatives or when-not cases, but the orientation purpose is unmistakable.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_recipeGet recipe detailsARead-onlyInspect
Fetch one entry's full details by its id — ids come from search_recipes or list_conceits results. Recipes return title, ingredients, instructions, notes and photo URL; non-recipe entries (letters, emails — list_conceits members carry a kind field) return the same shape with entry_kind set.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| id | Yes | The recipe's point id |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The readOnlyHint annotation already signals a safe read operation. The description adds behavioral detail beyond that by explaining the return shape: title, ingredients, instructions, notes, photo URL, and entry_kind for non-recipe entries. This is useful context that the annotation alone does not provide.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two sentences deliver the core purpose, id provenance, output fields, and mixed-type behavior without redundancy. The most important information is front-loaded, and every clause earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With only one parameter and no output schema, the description carries the responsibility of explaining both input and output. It fully covers the input source, the fields returned, and how non-recipe entries behave. No critical information is missing for an agent to call this tool correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already documents the single id parameter with 100% coverage, so the baseline is 3. The description adds value by explaining where ids come from (search_recipes or list_conceits) and confirming that the id refers to a general entry, not only a recipe. This provenance helps the agent supply the correct value.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states a specific action (fetch full details) and resource (one entry by id), and explicitly clarifies that this applies to both recipes and non-recipe entries. It differentiates itself from search_recipes and list_conceits by saying ids come from those tools, so an agent knows exactly what this tool is for.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description explains that ids come from search_recipes or list_conceits results, which gives clear context on when to invoke this tool. It doesn't explicitly list exclusion criteria or name alternatives, but the source-of-id guidance is enough to route the agent correctly in most cases.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_recipe_collection_overviewCollection overviewARead-onlyInspect
Get a compact statistical map of the whole recipe collection WITHOUT reading any recipes: total count plus how many recipes fall under each cuisine, each cookbook, and each dietary class. Call this ONCE at the start to understand the shape of the book (e.g. which cuisines dominate, how dessert-heavy it is) so you can choose theme concepts that actually cover it. Then use search_recipes to populate each theme.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The readOnlyHint annotation already establishes safety, and the description adds clarity about scope (no recipe reading, aggregated statistics). However, it does not disclose details like whether counts include empty categories, how many results are returned, or any potential performance constraints. The annotation lowers the burden, so a mid score is appropriate.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two sentences, with the core action and output content front-loaded, followed by clear usage guidance. No filler or repetition of schema/annotation information.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a zero-parameter overview tool with no output schema, the description fully covers what an agent needs: when to call, what it returns, and how it fits with sibling tools. Nothing critical is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters, so the baseline is 4. The description provides the only needed context about what the output represents, and no parameter documentation is required.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb and resource: 'Get a compact statistical map of the whole recipe collection' with explicit content (total count plus counts per cuisine, cookbook, dietary class). It also distinguishes itself from recipe-reading tools by noting it works 'WITHOUT reading any recipes'.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Explicitly tells the agent when to call it: 'ONCE at the start' to understand the collection shape, and provides a direct alternative for subsequent work: 'Then use search_recipes to populate each theme.' No ambiguity about placement in a workflow.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_scale_jobCheck a scaling runARead-onlyInspect
Poll a scale_recipe run that answered {status:'pending'}: {state:'running'} | {state:'failed', error} | {state:'done', result}. Free; poll every couple of seconds.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| job_id | Yes | job_id from scale_recipe |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, and the description adds useful behavior beyond that: the possible state values, that failed includes an error, that done includes a result, and that polling is free. This is meaningful behavioral context not present in the annotations or schema.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single dense sentence that front-loads the core action and polling target, then packs the state machine, cost hint, and polling cadence into compact notation. Every element earns its place and there is no filler.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a one-parameter read-only polling tool with no output schema, the description covers the essential return states and polling guidance. It is complete enough for an agent to invoke and interpret results, though it relies on the schema for the job_id source and does not describe any final cleanup or timeout behavior.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema covers 100% of the single parameter with the description 'job_id from scale_recipe'. The tool description only refers to 'a scale_recipe run', which largely repeats the schema's parameter description. With high schema coverage, the baseline of 3 is appropriate.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('Poll') and resource ('a scale_recipe run'), then enumerates the state transitions: running, failed with error, and done with result. This clearly differentiates it from siblings like get_background_job and scale_recipe by naming the job type and polling semantics.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear usage context: use this to poll a scale_recipe run that returned status 'pending', and suggests a polling interval of a couple of seconds. It does not explicitly name alternatives or state when not to use it, but the context is strong enough for an agent to select it correctly.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
get_shopping_listRead your synced shopping listARead-onlyInspect
Read the user's SYNCED shopping list — the shared List It list they keep with their cookbook partner: every line, whether it's crossed off, its aisle, and which recipes it came from. Use it to answer "what's on the list?" or before ticking things off. The list kept only on the user's phone is NOT visible here; when available is false, say why in one sentence (the note) and don't retry. Pass since (the last seq you saw) to get a cheap unchanged answer when nothing moved.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| since | No | The `seq` from your previous read. Omit for a full read. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description surfaces meaningful behavior: the list is the shared List It list, not the phone-only one; it returns line-level detail; it includes an `available` flag and a `note`; and it explains the `since`/`seq` mechanism for a cheap `unchanged` response. This is rich context an agent needs to handle the tool correctly.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is information-dense and front-loaded: scope first, then usage, then a key caveat, then parameter guidance. Each sentence earns its place. It is longer than a minimal description, but the extra context (phone-only list, note, unchanged behavior) is essential for correct calling.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a read-only tool with one optional parameter and no output schema, the description covers the returned data (lines, crossed-off states, aisles, recipe sources), the unavailable case (`available: false`, `note`, don't retry), and the incremental read via `since`. Nothing essential is missing: an agent can call it correctly and interpret the response.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already documents `since` as 'The `seq` from your previous read. Omit for a full read' (100% coverage). The description adds an important behavioral nuance: passing `since` yields a cheap `unchanged` answer when nothing moved. This clarifies the parameter's practical purpose beyond the raw schema.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description starts with 'Read the user's SYNCED shopping list', giving a specific verb and resource, then enumerates the contents (lines, crossed-off state, aisle, recipe sources). It explicitly distinguishes the shared synced list from the phone-only list, and the use of 'SYNCED' plus the sibling tool names (add/update/build) makes its scope unambiguous.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives concrete triggers: 'Use it to answer "what's on the list?" or before ticking things off.' It also tells the agent not to retry when `available` is false and notes the phone-only list is not visible. However, it never names a sibling alternative (e.g., add_to_shopping_list for writes), so the 'vs alternatives' part is only implicit.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
list_conceitsList curated shelvesARead-onlyInspect
List the collection's current curated shelves (themed groups spanning all entry kinds) with their titles, descriptions, cover photos, and members (each member: id, kind [recipe/letter/email], title, photo URL; Wikipedia ingredient reference cards are flagged reference: true). Build a member's app link by substituting its id into app_url_template. unavailable_count reports members that no longer resolve.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The annotations declare readOnlyHint=true, and the description adds meaningful behavioral detail beyond that: it explains member kinds, the `reference: true` flag for Wikipedia ingredient cards, the `app_url_template` substitution rule, and that `unavailable_count` reports unresolved members. This gives the agent a solid understanding of what the result contains without contradicting the annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is compact yet information-dense. Every clause adds value: the definition of curated shelves, the member structure, the reference flag, the app link template, and the unavailable_count meaning. It is front-loaded with the action and resource, and there is no filler or repetition.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Even though there is no output schema, the description supplies all essential return-value semantics: the top-level fields, the member object shape, the allowed kinds, the reference flag, the link-building instruction, and the meaning of unavailable_count. With zero parameters and a read-only annotation, this is sufficient for an agent to invoke the tool and interpret its result correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters, so there is nothing for the description to clarify about argument semantics. The schema already covers parameters completely, and the description focuses on output behavior instead, which is appropriate for a parameterless read-only listing tool.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific verb ('List') and a specific resource ('the collection's current curated shelves'), and then enumerates exactly what is returned: titles, descriptions, cover photos, and member details. It also distinguishes shelves from other tools by noting they are 'themed groups spanning all entry kinds,' so an agent can clearly identify this as the listing operation.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear context: this tool lists current curated shelves and describes their composition. It does not explicitly name sibling alternatives or state when not to use it, but none of the sibling tools perform the same listing function, so the usage context is already clear enough to avoid confusion.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
lookup_cuisineSearch the Wikipedia cuisine treeARead-onlyInspect
Search the Wikipedia cuisine tree by name — a national, regional or sub-regional cuisine, a country, a demonym ('persian' → Iranian cuisine). Returns node URIs (cuisine://…) to read with read_cuisine_node, each with its path in the hierarchy and the recipe taxonomy slug anchored there, if any. Use it to place a dish or a cuisine correctly; never guess a URI.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| name | Yes | cuisine name, demonym, region or country |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The readOnlyHint annotation already signals a non-mutating operation. The description adds behavioral context beyond that: it specifies the return payload (URIs with hierarchy path and taxonomy slug) and warns against guessing URIs. No contradictions with annotations. It does not cover edge cases like empty results, but for a read-only lookup the added detail is sufficient.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two sentences with no redundancy. The primary action and return value are front-loaded, and the usage guidance is embedded efficiently. Every sentence contributes value.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a single-parameter, read-only lookup with no output schema, the description is complete. It explains the input, output, and how to use the results (with read_cuisine_node). No critical information for calling the tool correctly is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema description for 'name' is generic ('cuisine name, demonym, region or country'). The tool description enriches this by giving concrete input types ('national, regional or sub-regional cuisine, a country, a demonym') and an example ('persian' → Iranian cuisine). This adds meaning beyond the schema's 100% coverage, so it exceeds the baseline.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb ('Search') and resource ('Wikipedia cuisine tree'), and describes what it returns (node URIs with path and taxonomy slug). It also distinguishes itself from read_cuisine_node by implying it is the lookup step that produces URIs for reading. Clear and unambiguous.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Provides explicit guidance: 'Use it to place a dish or a cuisine correctly; never guess a URI.' This tells the agent when to invoke it. It also implicitly contrasts with read_cuisine_node by instructing to read the returned URIs with that tool. However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives like search_recipes, so a clear exclusion is missing.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
read_cuisine_nodeRead a cuisine tree nodeARead-onlyInspect
Read one node of the Wikipedia cuisine tree by its cuisine:// URI: its place in the hierarchy (continent → region → national → regional), a one-line gloss, the English Wikipedia summary, its children (each with a URI), influences, and which recipe taxonomy slugs are anchored on it. Start from a continent (cuisine://americas, cuisine://europe, cuisine://asia, cuisine://africa, cuisine://oceania) or the root cuisine:// for an overview, or use a URI from lookup_cuisine.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| uri | Yes | a cuisine:// URI, e.g. cuisine://americas/north_american/american |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The readOnlyHint annotation already declares a read-only operation, and the description aligns with that by using 'Read'. The description adds valuable behavioral context by listing the specific content the tool returns (hierarchy, gloss, summary, children, influences, taxonomy slugs), which goes beyond the annotation's simple safety hint.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is concise, fitting in two sentences, and front-loads the core purpose and return data. Every clause adds relevant information without redundancy, and the structure flows logically from what the tool does to how to use it.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With no output schema, the description must explain the return value, and it does thoroughly: hierarchy, gloss, summary, children, influences, and taxonomy slugs. It also covers how to get a valid URI, which is the only parameter. For a simple read tool with a single parameter and readOnlyHint, nothing essential is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already provides a description and example for the uri parameter (100% coverage), but the description adds extra value by listing valid root URIs (continents, root) and suggesting obtaining URIs from lookup_cuisine. This clarifies acceptable inputs beyond the schema's single example, making parameter usage more robust.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific verb ('Read'), a specific resource ('one node of the Wikipedia cuisine tree'), and enumerates the exact data returned (hierarchy position, gloss, summary, children, influences, taxonomy slugs). It clearly distinguishes itself from siblings like lookup_cuisine (search) and traverse_graph (navigation) by focusing on a single node's details.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives explicit starting points: use a continent URI, the root cuisine://, or a URI from lookup_cuisine. This tells an agent how to obtain a valid uri parameter and implies this tool is for retrieving details on a known node, not for searching or traversing. It doesn't explicitly state when not to use it, but the guidance is clear enough.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
reshuffle_conceitsReimagine the curated shelvesAInspect
Regenerate the collection's curated shelves ("conceits") — a fresh themed re-grouping of every entry, replacing the current shelves. BEFORE calling: confirm the user actually wants a reshuffle, and ask whether they'd like to give the curation a creative direction (a theme, mood, or organizing idea — e.g. "lean into late-summer produce"). Pass their answer as guidance, or omit it for a clean-slate shuffle. The run takes about a minute in the background; call list_conceits afterwards to see the new shelves.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| guidance | No | Optional creative direction from the user for the new shelves. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already indicate mutation (readOnlyHint false) and non-destructive (destructiveHint false). Description adds that it runs in the background (~1 min) and replaces existing shelves, and suggests follow-up. Adds behavioral context beyond annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Moderately long but every sentence adds value; purpose is front-loaded and instructions are clear. No fluff.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a single-optional-parameter tool with no output schema, the description covers the full call sequence: confirm, ask for direction, pass guidance, wait, and verify with list_conceits. An agent has everything needed.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema already covers guidance with a description; description adds how to populate it (pass user's answer or omit for clean slate), making the parameter's use explicit.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb (regenerate) and resource (curated shelves/conceits), and explains that it replaces current shelves. Distinguishes from sibling list_conceits which is a read-only view.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Explicitly instructs to confirm user intent and ask for creative direction before calling, and provides the guidance parameter usage. Also tells to call list_conceits afterwards. Gives clear when-to-use context.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
scale_recipeScale a recipeARead-onlyIdempotentInspect
Scale a recipe's ingredients by a factor (2 = double, 0.5 = half) the way the app's Cook Mode does — sensible rounding, plus notes on pan size, time and temperature. Answers with the scaled lines in the recipe's own ingredient order, or {status:'pending', job_id} when the run was queued: poll get_scale_job. Nothing is saved to the recipe. Counts against the user's AI allowance. Requires the cook:assist permission.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| notes | No | Free-form hints | |
| factor | Yes | 2 = double, 0.5 = half | |
| recipe_id | Yes | The recipe's point id | |
| substitutions | No | Swaps already made, keyed by the ingredient's index in the recipe (as a string) — so the scaled line is the replacement's, not the original's |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description adds important behavior beyond the readOnly/idempotent annotations: it can return a pending job, nothing is saved to the recipe, it consumes the user's AI allowance, and it requires cook:assist permission. There is no contradiction with the annotations.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The definition is compact and front-loaded: it covers action, factor meaning, output behavior, async queuing, side effects, and permissions in a few dense sentences. Every sentence contributes useful information without filler.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Despite having no output schema, the description clearly explains the success response, the queued response, how to poll for the job, persistence behavior, allowance cost, and required permission. This is sufficient for correct invocation of a tool with four parameters and nested substitutions.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents factor, recipe_id, notes, and substitutions. The description reinforces factor semantics but does not add substantial parameter-level information beyond what the schema provides, so the baseline 3 applies.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with a precise action and resource: 'Scale a recipe's ingredients by a factor'. It adds factor semantics, the Cook Mode behavior, and the output format, making it clearly distinct from siblings like get_recipe or get_scale_job.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives clear context for when to use the tool: scaling a recipe by a fraction/multiple, with an explicit follow-up path to get_scale_job for queued runs. It does not explicitly contrast with related tools or state when not to use it, so it misses a 5.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
search_recipesSearch recipesARead-onlyInspect
Search the recipe collection semantically (dense + ColBERT hybrid) to gather the members of a theme. Pass a rich natural-language concept, not just a keyword — e.g. 'cozy cold-weather baked desserts', 'bright summer salads with fresh vegetables', 'Latin American and Caribbean mains', 'anything featuring apples'. Returns up to limit compact hits {id,title,cuisine,dietary,cookbook}. Call once per theme concept; call again with a broader/narrower query if a group is too small or too big. Do NOT rely on cuisine labels alone — many recipes are unlabelled and only reachable by concept search.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| limit | No | Max hits to return (default 20). | |
| query | Yes | A rich natural-language description of the theme's members. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description discloses meaningful behavior: the hybrid dense + ColBERT retrieval, the compact hit shape {id,title,cuisine,dietary,cookbook}, the up-to-limit cap, and the hidden trap that many recipes are unlabelled and only reachable via concept search. This is valuable context that the annotation alone does not provide.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is dense but every sentence earns its place: purpose, method, examples, return shape, iteration guidance, and a critical warning. It is front-loaded with the primary action and does not waste words on redundant filler.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given the tool's moderate complexity, full parameter schema coverage, and read-only annotation, the description is complete. It explains the expected output shape despite the lack of an output schema, gives rich query guidance, and provides clear call/re-call behavior, leaving no critical gap for an agent deciding how to invoke it.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema coverage is 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description adds real semantic value for the query parameter by insisting on a rich natural-language concept over a keyword and providing concrete examples such as 'cozy cold-weather baked desserts.' The limit parameter also gains context from the phrase 'Returns up to limit compact hits.'
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with a specific action and resource: 'Search the recipe collection semantically (dense + ColBERT hybrid) to gather the members of a theme.' This clearly distinguishes it from siblings like get_recipe or lookup_cuisine, and the purpose—retrieving theme members via concept search—is explicit.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives concrete when-to-use direction: gather theme members, pass a rich concept rather than a keyword, call once per concept, and adjust the query if results are too small or too large. It also warns against relying on cuisine labels because many recipes are unlabelled, effectively steering the agent away from sibling tools like lookup_cuisine.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
send_recipe_emailEmail a recipe to yourselfAInspect
Email a recipe from the collection to YOU — the signed-in account. There is no recipient option: it always goes to your own verified email, never anyone else (to share with others, forward it or use a share link). Optionally include a short personal note. Requires the email:send permission.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| note | No | A short personal note to include above the recipe. | |
| recipe_id | Yes | The recipe's point id (from search_recipes / get_recipe). |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the annotations, the description adds meaningful behavioral details: the email always goes to the signed-in account's verified email, there is no recipient option, and the email:send permission is required. This helps the agent understand side effects and constraints beyond the basic read/write hints.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is three sentences with no fluff. It front-loads the core behavior, then covers exclusions, optionality, and permission requirements efficiently. Every sentence contributes useful information.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple two-parameter tool with annotations and full schema coverage, the description covers the key operational facts: destination, lack of recipient option, optional note, and required permission. It does not describe the response/confirmation, but that is a minor gap given the tool's simplicity.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents both parameters. The description adds minimal extra meaning, such as 'short personal note' and 'from the collection,' but does not significantly expand on the schema definitions.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific verb and resource: 'Email a recipe from the collection to YOU.' It also distinguishes itself by explicitly noting there is no recipient option and that it always goes to the signed-in account's verified email, which clearly separates it from any sharing-related alternatives.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear context for when to use the tool: when you want to email a recipe to yourself. It also provides a when-not signal by saying 'to share with others, forward it or use a share link,' though it does not name a specific sibling tool as an alternative.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
start_background_jobStart a long-running jobAInspect
Start a long-running background job and get a job id to poll with get_background_job. Use this for work that takes minutes rather than seconds. Available kinds: "conceit_reshuffle" — Regenerate the collection's curated shelves ("conceits") — a fresh themed re-grouping of every entry, replacing the current shelves. Takes several minutes. Confirm with the user before starting one: these runs cost real money and replace existing work.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| args | No | Arguments for the job kind. Omit when it takes none. | |
| kind | Yes | Which job to start. One of: conceit_reshuffle. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description is transparent about the side effect ('replacing the current shelves', 'replace existing work'), but this directly contradicts annotations.destructiveHint=false. Since the annotation says the tool is not destructive while the description says it replaces existing work, the agent receives conflicting signals; this is an annotation contradiction.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is front-loaded with the core purpose and the polling handoff to get_background_job, and the confirmation/cost warning is valuable. Minor redundancy ('takes minutes rather than seconds' vs 'takes several minutes'; 'replacing current shelves' vs 'replace existing work') keeps it from being maximally tight.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a two-parameter tool with no output schema, it supplies the needed execution context: job id for polling, duration, confirmation requirement, cost, and side effects. Missing details are minor, such as an explicit statement that conceit_reshuffle accepts no args and no failure/return shape, but the definition is strong enough for an agent to call and monitor it.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already documents both parameters with 100% coverage, and the description adds real meaning to the only kind value by explaining what conceit_reshuffle does, how long it takes, and that args can be omitted when none are needed. It does not further specify the args object shape, which prevents a 5.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description starts with a specific verb and resource: start a long-running background job and get a job id to poll with get_background_job. It also names the only job kind (conceit_reshuffle) and what it does, making the tool's purpose unambiguous relative to sibling polling/list tools.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It gives explicit context: use this for work that takes minutes rather than seconds, expect several minutes, and confirm with the user because runs cost money and replace existing work. It does not explicitly point to a non-background alternative such as the closely named sibling reshuffle_conceits, so it stops short of a full when/when-not matrix.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
suggest_substituteSuggest an ingredient swapARead-onlyInspect
Suggest replacements for one ingredient of a recipe the cook doesn't have — each with a ratio, the reasoning, caveats and a confidence. Judged in the context of that recipe (what role the ingredient plays in it). Nothing is saved. Counts against the user's AI allowance. Requires the cook:assist permission.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| recipe_id | Yes | The recipe's point id | |
| ingredient | Yes | The ingredient line (or name) that is missing |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description explicitly discloses that nothing is saved, that the call counts against the user's AI allowance, and that it requires the cook:assist permission. It also clarifies that substitutions are judged in the context of the recipe, adding meaningful behavioral context beyond the structured annotation.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is compact and front-loaded: the core purpose appears first, followed by output contents, context, side effects, and permission requirements. Every sentence contributes useful information with no repetition or filler.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a two-parameter tool with no output schema, the description covers what the tool returns, how it behaves, its side effects, cost/billing implications, and the required permission. An agent has enough information to decide whether to call it and what to expect.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the parameter documentation already explains recipe_id and ingredient. The description adds some context—that the ingredient is one the cook doesn't have and that the recipe context matters—but it does not substantially enhance the meaning of either parameter beyond what the schema provides.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a precise verb ('Suggest replacements') and a specific resource (one missing ingredient of a recipe), and it enumerates what the result will contain: ratio, reasoning, caveats, and confidence. This distinguishes it clearly from the sibling tools, none of which offer substitution suggestions.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives a clear use case: when the cook doesn't have an ingredient and needs replacements judged in the context of a specific recipe. It does not explicitly name alternatives or say when not to use it, but among the sibling tools there is no close competing substitution tool, so the context is sufficient.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
traverse_graphTraverse connections graphARead-onlyInspect
Multi-hop graph walk from a start node, with filters. This is the EXACT-enumeration tool: 'every recipe using brown sugar' (start='ingredient:brown-sugar', node_types=['entry']), 'all of Grandma's recipes' (start='author:...', node_types=['entry']), 'the ingredient fingerprint of mom's collection' (start='user:...', depth 2, node_types=['ingredient']). Results are complete up to limit — if truncated, the response says so. Node ids are ':' — e.g. 'entry:' (prefix a search_recipes hit id with 'entry:'), 'ingredient:brown-sugar', 'author:mother-in-law', 'appliance:oven', 'user:'. User-supplied metadata is traversable too: 'tag:' (a shared free-form label) and 'property::' (a shared key=value, e.g. 'property:region:alaska') — every entry carrying that tag/value links to the same node. Recipes with named sub-preparations carry 'component::' nodes (HAS_COMPONENT from the entry; the component links to its own ingredients/steps) — e.g. "what else uses this sauce?" is one hop.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| depth | No | Max hops from start (default 1). | |
| limit | No | Max nodes visited (default 100). | |
| start | Yes | Start node id (bare recipe ids auto-resolve). | |
| edge_types | No | Only follow these relationship types. | |
| node_types | No | Only RETURN nodes of these types (traversal still passes through others). |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations only declare readOnlyHint=true, so the description carries the transparency burden. It adds exact-enumeration semantics, truncation signaling, node-id conventions, and metadata traversal behavior—far more than the annotations require.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is dense but each segment contributes: core operation, exactness/truncation, ID format, metadata nodes, and component-node nuance. The core definition is front-loaded and the examples compress a lot of usage into a small space.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With no output schema, the description should cover result semantics; it states completeness and truncation behavior and gives node-id conventions that help parse results. It does not specify the result shape or fields beyond that, which is a small gap for a complex graph traversal tool.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description goes beyond the schema by explaining the '<type>:<key>' node-id format with real examples, clarifying what node_types controls, and showing valid start strings for depth and node_types usage.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The first sentence names a specific operation—multi-hop graph walk from a start node with filters—and immediately distinguishes it with 'EXACT-enumeration tool' and concrete examples. This clearly separates it from graph siblings like find_graph_connection, get_graph_node, and get_graph_overview.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear when-to-use context through examples and explicitly frames the tool as exhaustive enumeration. It does not name alternatives or list when not to use it, so it falls short of a full 5.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
update_shopping_listTick, remove or add lines on your synced listAIdempotentInspect
Change the user's SYNCED shopping list (see get_shopping_list): cross lines off, un-cross them, take them off, or add plain one-off lines. Call it ONLY on the user's explicit ask ("tick off the milk", "take eggs off the list"). check / uncheck / remove take item keys copied exactly from get_shopping_list — never invented. add takes plain lines as the user said them ("paper towels"). Their partner sees every change. To put a RECIPE's ingredients on the list use add_to_shopping_list instead. Returns the list as it now stands.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| add | No | ||
| check | No | ||
| remove | No | ||
| uncheck | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations declare the tool is not read-only, is idempotent, and not destructive. The description adds context that the list is synced and partners see every change, that keys must be copied exactly (never invented), and that it returns the updated list. This goes beyond annotations with useful behavioral details.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is dense but well-structured, front-loading the core purpose, then usage rules, parameter semantics, alternatives, and return behavior. Each sentence conveys a distinct requirement without redundancy, earning its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given the tool's complexity (4 operations, no output schema), the description covers all necessary aspects: exact operation semantics, key provenance, user consent requirement, the partner visibility effect, the alternative tool for recipes, and the return value. Nothing critical is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
With zero schema descriptions, the description fully compensates: it explains that check/uncheck/remove take exact keys from get_shopping_list, while add takes plain lines as spoken by the user. This gives the agent precise guidance on how to fill each parameter correctly.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool changes the synced shopping list with specific operations (cross off, un-cross, remove, add). It also references get_shopping_list for keys and identifies add_to_shopping_list as the alternative for recipe ingredients, distinguishing this tool from its siblings.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It explicitly says 'Call it ONLY on the user's explicit ask' with concrete examples, and directs recipe-ingredient additions to add_to_shopping_list. This gives clear when-to-use and when-not-to-use guidance, including the prerequisite of obtaining keys from get_shopping_list.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Tool Schema Changelog
Recent tool additions, removals, and schema changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
21 tool updates
- First observed
add_to_shopping_list - First observed
build_shopping_list - First observed
find_graph_connection - First observed
get_background_job - First observed
get_graph_node - First observed
get_graph_overview - First observed
get_recipe - First observed
get_recipe_collection_overview - First observed
get_scale_job - First observed
get_shopping_list - First observed
list_conceits - First observed
lookup_cuisine - First observed
read_cuisine_node - First observed
reshuffle_conceits - First observed
scale_recipe - First observed
search_recipes - First observed
send_recipe_email - First observed
start_background_job - First observed
suggest_substitute - First observed
traverse_graph - First observed
update_shopping_list
Publisher details
- Operator
- Not applicable
- Operator website
- https://wereci.xyz · Publisher source
- Vendor relationship
- Independent · Publisher source
- Documentation
- https://wereci.xyz/connect · Publisher source
- Trust center
- https://wereci.xyz/privacy · Publisher source
- Restrictions
- Account based: · 30-day free trial · $15 once to unlock — includes $5 of AI credit · Add AI credit only when you need it; it never expires · Unused credit is refundable at any time · Publisher source
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