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Add Paper By Arxiv Id

add_paper_by_arxiv_id

Add a paper to your Zotero library using its arXiv ID. Automatically fetches metadata from arXiv and CrossRef, optionally placing it in a specified collection.

Instructions

Add a paper to your Zotero library by its arXiv ID.

Fetches metadata from the arXiv API. If the paper has a DOI, resolves it via CrossRef for richer metadata; otherwise creates a preprint entry directly. Optionally add it to a specific collection.

Args: arxiv_id: The arXiv ID of the paper (e.g. "2301.07041") collection_id: Optional Zotero collection key to add the paper to

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
arxiv_idYes
collection_idNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

The description adds behavioral context beyond the annotations by explaining that it fetches metadata from the arXiv API, resolves DOIs via CrossRef, and creates a preprint entry otherwise. This provides useful expectations for the agent, though it could also mention edge cases like duplicate handling.

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, opening with a clear one-sentence purpose, followed by two sentences of workflow, and then a compact Args list. Every sentence earns its place without unnecessary length.

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 two parameters and an output schema, the description covers purpose, behavior, and parameters adequately. It could mention potential errors or duplicate handling, but overall it provides sufficient context for an agent to use the tool correctly. Minor gap: no sibling differentiation, but that is more a usage guideline concern.

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

Parameters5/5

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

With 0% schema description coverage, the description fully compensates by explaining each parameter: arxiv_id with an example ('2301.07041') and collection_id as optional and a Zotero collection key. This adds meaningful semantics beyond the raw schema types.

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 'Add a paper to your Zotero library by its arXiv ID,' which is a specific verb, resource, and method. This distinguishes it from sibling tools like add_paper_by_doi or add_book_by_isbn, making the purpose unambiguous.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

Usage is implied by the tool name and first sentence (use when you have an arXiv ID), but the description provides no explicit guidance on when to choose this tool over alternatives like add_paper_by_doi or add_item_from_metadata. It does not discuss exclusions or preferred scenarios.

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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