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TheLlamainator

After Effects MCP Server

add-any-effect

Add any After Effects effect to a layer by specifying its matchName or display name. Supports optional parameter setting.

Instructions

Add any After Effects effect to a layer by matchName or display name.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
compIndexYes1-based index of the target composition in the project panel.
layerIndexYes1-based index of the target layer within the composition.
effectYesEffect identifier. Prefer matchName for reliability (e.g., 'ADBE Gaussian Blur 2').
effectSettingsNoOptional parameters to set immediately after adding the effect.
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states the basic action but does not mention side effects, error cases, or whether it replaces existing effects. Lacks details on what happens when effectSettings are provided.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

Single sentence, front-loaded with verb and resource. No unnecessary words. However, could be expanded to include important details 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?

No output schema and no annotations. Given the complexity of adding After Effects effects (potential for errors, property details), the description is too brief. Missing return value information and behavioral context.

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 already has 100% coverage with descriptions for all parameters (e.g., '1-based index', 'prefer matchName'). The tool description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, resulting in baseline score of 3.

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?

Description clearly states the action (add), resource (any effect to a layer), and identification method (matchName or display name). It distinguishes from siblings by specifying 'any' effect, but no explicit differentiation from similar tools like 'apply-effect'.

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 siblings like 'apply-effect', 'apply-effect-template', or 'list-available-effects'. The description does not mention prerequisites or context for use.

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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