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TheLlamainator

After Effects MCP Server

setLayerKeyframe

Set a keyframe for a layer property such as Position, Scale, Rotation, or Opacity at a specified time in an After Effects composition.

Instructions

Set a keyframe for a specific layer property at a given time.

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.
propertyNameYesName of the property to keyframe (e.g., 'Position', 'Scale', 'Rotation', 'Opacity').
timeInSecondsYesThe time (in seconds) for the keyframe.
valueNoThe value for the keyframe (e.g., [x,y] for Position, [w,h] for Scale, angle for Rotation, percentage for Opacity)
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations exist, so the description must disclose behavior. It only states the action without revealing side effects (e.g., overwriting existing keyframes), required permissions, or property-specific nuances. This is insufficient for a mutation tool.

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?

The description is very concise at one sentence, but the omission of key details like usage context and optional parameter behavior prevents a perfect score. It is appropriately front-loaded.

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 no output schema, the description should compensate with usage context and parameter clarity. It fails to explain when value is optional or the exact format for different property types, leaving significant gaps for the agent.

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?

The input schema covers all five parameters with descriptions, so the baseline is 3. The description adds no additional semantic value beyond the schema; it merely repeats the overall purpose.

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?

The description clearly states the tool sets a keyframe for a specific layer property at a given time. It implies layer properties (e.g., Position, Scale) and distinguishes from sibling tools like set-effect-keyframe, though not explicitly. The name and schema reinforce this.

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 usage guidance is provided. The description does not indicate when to use this tool versus alternatives like set-effect-keyframe or setLayerExpression, nor does it mention prerequisites or constraints.

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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