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ae_render_frame

Render a single frame from an After Effects composition to a PNG file. Preview your work without using the Render Queue.

Instructions

Render a single frame of a composition to a PNG and return its file path — use it to actually look at what you've built. Fast (no Render Queue).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
compNo
timeNoTime in seconds of the frame to capture.
outputPathNoAbsolute .png path. Defaults to a timestamped file in the OS temp dir.
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must cover behavioral traits. It mentions 'Fast (no Render Queue)' but does not disclose side effects, permissions, error handling, or whether the composition is modified. Adequate but not rich.

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?

Two sentences, front-loaded with purpose, followed by usage hint. Every word adds value, no fluff.

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?

For a simple tool with no output schema, the description covers purpose, usage, and parameter hints. It lacks mention of return value format (just 'file path') and that 'comp' is likely required. Relatively complete.

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?

Schema coverage is 67% (time, outputPath have descriptions). The description adds no new semantics beyond the schema; it implies 'comp' is a composition but does not clarify if it is required or defaults. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 verb 'render', the resource 'a single frame of a composition', and the output 'PNG file path'. It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'ae_render_comp' and 'ae_render_frames' by specifying single frame.

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 provides context for when to use ('actually look at what you've built') and a performance hint ('Fast (no Render Queue)'). It does not explicitly mention when not to use or alternative tools, but the sibling set implies alternatives.

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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