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Google Scholar MCP Server

google_scholar_cite: GET /

hasdata_google_scholar_cite_getScholarCitationFormats

Get citation styles (MLA, APA, Chicago, Harvard, Vancouver) and export links (BibTeX, EndNote) for a Google Scholar result ID to support citation features.

Instructions

Get Scholar Citation Formats

Looks up citation formats and export links for a single Google Scholar organic search result, identified by its resultId (as returned in a google/scholar organic result). Returns formatted citation snippets (MLA, APA, Chicago, Harvard, Vancouver) and reference-manager export links (BibTeX, EndNote, RefMan, RefWorks). Use to build citation/bibliography features or complete a research workflow started with google/scholar.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
qYesThe `resultId` of a Google Scholar organic result, as returned by the google/scholar endpoint.
hlNoThe two-letter language code for the language you want to use for the search. Provide one exact documented value (159 allowed), e.g. `af`, `ak`.

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv1.0.0

TDQS

A4.3/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral transparency. It discloses that the tool returns citation snippets and export links, implying a read-only operation. However, it does not mention potential errors (e.g., invalid `resultId`), rate limits, or whether the operation is idempotent. This is a minor gap.

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 concise and well-structured: a title line, a clear functional explanation, an output summary, and use-case guidance. No redundant information or fluff is present. Every sentence contributes to the tool's understanding.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Given that no output schema is provided, the description compensates by explicitly listing the expected output types (citation formats and export links). It also explains the input provenance (from google/scholar results) and the intended use cases, covering all essential context an agent needs to invoke the tool correctly.

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

Parameters4/5

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

Schema coverage is 100% with both parameters described. The `q` parameter is explained as the `resultId` from a google/scholar result, providing critical cross-tool context. The `hl` parameter includes guidance on format (two-letter code) and a range (159 allowed) with examples, which exceeds basic type information. These descriptions add meaningful value 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's function: looking up citation formats and export links for a single Google Scholar result. It specifies the verb 'Looks up', identifies the resource type (Google Scholar organic result), and differentiates from sibling tools by referencing the `resultId` returned by the google/scholar endpoint. The use cases ('build citation/bibliography features') further clarify its purpose.

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 description indicates when to use the tool: after obtaining a `resultId` from a google/scholar organic result, and for citation/bibliography needs. It implicitly contrasts with the search tool that produces the results. However, it does not explicitly mention alternative tools or scenarios where this tool would be inappropriate, but the context is sufficient for a clear use case.

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