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TheLlamainator

After Effects MCP Server

mcp_aftereffects_applyEffectTemplate

Apply a named effect template (e.g., glow, drop shadow) to a specific layer in an After Effects composition, with optional custom overrides.

Instructions

Apply a predefined effect template to a layer in After Effects

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.
templateNameYesName of the effect template to apply.
customSettingsNoOptional custom settings to override defaults.
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It only states the action but does not disclose behavioral traits such as mutating layer, permission requirements, or return behavior. Minimal transparency.

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?

Single sentence, front-loaded, and no unnecessary words. Efficient and to the point.

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?

Given the complexity (4 parameters, enum, nested object) and lack of output schema/annotations, the description is too minimal. It fails to explain what templates are, how customSettings work, or how this tool relates to numerous siblings.

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 100%, so baseline is 3. Description adds no extra parameter meaning beyond what the schema already provides. However, schema descriptions are present, so no deduction.

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 it applies a predefined effect template to a layer. Verb 'apply' and resource 'effect template' are specific. However, it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'apply-effect' or 'apply-preset', which could cause confusion.

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 alternatives. Sibling tools include 'apply-effect', 'apply-preset', 'apply-effect-template', etc., but description provides no context about choosing among them.

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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