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take_snapshot

Read-only

Capture a DOM snapshot with stable identifiers to inspect page structure, then retake after navigation to track updates.

Instructions

Capture DOM snapshot with stable UIDs. Retake after navigation.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
saveToNoSave the complete snapshot text to a file (ignores maxLines) instead of returning it inline. Pass a file path, an existing directory (generated file inside), or true (generated file under ~/.firefox-devtools-mcp/output/). Relative paths resolve against the current working directory.
previewNoNumber of characters of the saved output to return inline as a preview when saveTo is used. Omit for no preview.
maxDepthNoMax tree depth
maxLinesNoMax lines (default: 100)
selectorNoCSS selector to scope snapshot to specific element (e.g., "#app")
includeAllNoInclude all visible elements without relevance filtering. Useful for Vue/Livewire apps (default: false)
includeTextNoInclude text (default: true)
includeAttributesNoInclude ARIA attributes (default: false)
Behavior4/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

Beyond the readOnlyHint annotation, the description adds valuable behavioral information: snapshots have stable UIDs and must be retaken after navigation. This helps the agent understand the lifecycle of the data. No contradiction with annotations.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is extremely concise with two short sentences that convey the core purpose and a critical usage hint. Every word adds value, and the key information is front-loaded.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the number of optional parameters and the absence of an output schema, the description provides enough context for the tool's role in the workflow: it produces snapshots with UIDs for subsequent interaction. It could mention integration with sibling tools, but the current level is sufficient for an agent to understand when and how to use it.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

All 8 parameters are fully documented in the input schema with descriptions, achieving 100% schema coverage. The description itself does not add extra parameter information, which is acceptable given the schema's thoroughness, but it also doesn't enhance understanding beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool captures a DOM snapshot and highlights the key feature of stable UIDs, which distinguishes it from sibling tools like screenshot_page. The verb 'Capture' accurately describes the action, and 'DOM snapshot' specifies the resource.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The instruction 'Retake after navigation' provides clear context on when to use the tool, implying that snapshots become stale after navigation. However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use it, so it doesn't earn a 5.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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