Retrieve full profile details for a YouTube channel using its ID, @handle, username, or channel URL.
Retrieve channel profile. Returns full profile details for a YouTube channel.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| id | Yes | Channel ID, @handle, /c path, /user path, bare username, or full YouTube channel URL |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.0.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the burden. It implies a read-only operation ('retrieve', 'returns'), but does not disclose authentication needs, rate limits, or output structure. Minimal but not misleading.
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, no extraneous information. Every word adds value. Front-loaded with the action.
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 simplicity, the description omits what 'full profile details' includes. Without an output schema, the agent lacks critical context about return data, which could affect downstream usage.
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% with a thorough parameter description listing multiple ID formats. The tool description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, so baseline 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?
Clearly states it retrieves a YouTube channel profile, which is distinct from sibling tools that fetch videos, playlists, or comments. The verb 'Retrieve' and resource 'channel profile' are specific.
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?
No guidance on when to use this tool compared to siblings like youtube_channel_videos or youtube_channel_playlists. The agent must infer context from the name alone.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.