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Gregarrific

ynab-mcp-server

by Gregarrific

createCategory

Add a new category to a YNAB budget plan by providing a name and category group, with optional goal target and date.

Instructions

Creates a new category

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
plan_idYesThe id of the plan ("last-used" can be used to specify the last used plan and "default" can be used if default plan selection is enabled (see: https://api.ynab.com/#oauth-default-plan)
categoryYes
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description should disclose behavioral traits. It only says 'Creates a new category' without mentioning permissions, side effects, or default behaviors. The schema provides some details, but the description adds no behavioral context.

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

Conciseness3/5

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

The description is very concise (4 words), which is efficient but underspecified for a tool with complex nested parameters. It could be more informative without losing conciseness.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given the tool's complexity (multiple optional fields, nested category object, no output schema), the description is insufficient. It does not explain return behavior or the implications of setting goal-related fields.

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?

The schema description coverage is moderate (50%). The description does not add meaning beyond the schema; for example, it doesn't explain the 'plan_id' parameter's special values. Baseline 3 is appropriate as the schema carries most semantic weight.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states it creates a category, using a specific verb and resource. However, it does not distinguish from sibling tools like createCategoryGroup, which creates a category group, missing the opportunity to disambiguate.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives, nor any prerequisites or context for invocation. The description merely restates the action without situational guidance.

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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