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Remove From Collection

remove_from_collection

Remove an item from a Zotero collection while keeping it in your library. Provide the item key and collection ID to reorganize collections without losing references.

Instructions

Remove an item from a collection without deleting it from the library.

Args: item_key: The Zotero item key collection_id: The collection key to remove it from

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
item_keyYes
collection_idYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint=false and destructiveHint=false. The description adds valuable context by confirming the item is not deleted from the library, which clarifies the non-destructive nature. No contradiction with annotations.

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 extremely concise, front-loaded with the purpose, and includes a compact args list. Every sentence adds value with no wasted words.

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 two-parameter tool with an output schema, the description covers purpose, parameters, and key side-effect (no library deletion). It does not mention edge cases like error behavior when the item is not in the collection, but this is not critical for basic invocation.

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?

Schema description coverage is 0%, and the description fully compensates by providing clear, actionable definitions for both parameters: item_key is 'The Zotero item key' and collection_id is 'The collection key to remove it from'.

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 uses a specific verb+resource ('Remove an item from a collection') and explicitly clarifies the scope ('without deleting it from the library'), clearly distinguishing it from sibling tools like delete_item or trash_item.

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?

The description implies when to use this tool (when you want to unlink an item from a collection but preserve it in the library) but does not explicitly name alternatives or state when not to use it. Sibling tools include add_to_collection and delete_item, but they are not referenced.

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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