waas-mcp
This server lets you search and apply to Work at a Startup (YC job board) jobs through MCP, with profile management and safety-first dry-run submissions.
Search jobs with filters (role, remote, visa, equity, salary, keyword, sort, job type)
Read full job postings and company profiles
Inspect application forms to see required fields, application type, and external apply links
Submit applications with answers, defaulting to dry_run=true for preview before real submission
Check weekly application quota (10/week) and remaining capacity
List jobs you've applied to via this MCP
Get and preview your profile as companies see it
Update profile, edit skills, and edit share copy
Draft optimized profile updates and audit profile gaps
Check login/auth status
Click on "Deploy Server".
Wait a few minutes for the server to deploy. Once ready, it will show a "Started" state.
In the chat, type
@followed by the MCP server name and your instructions, e.g., "@waas-mcpSearch WaaS for remote engineering jobs and inspect one at random"
That's it! The server will respond to your query, and you can continue using it as needed.
Here is a step-by-step guide with screenshots.
WaaS MCP
MCP server for Work at a Startup — YC's job board (WaaS). Search jobs, read listings, inspect what each application needs, and submit with dry-run safety by default.
waas.comis a parked domain. This targets workatastartup.com.
Quick start
Requirements: Node.js 20+, a Work at a Startup / YC account (for applying).
git clone https://github.com/Thespaceblade/waas-mcp.git
cd waas-mcp
./scripts/install.shinstall.sh installs dependencies, builds, downloads the Playwright browser, and prints an MCP config snippet for your machine.
Sign in once (opens a browser window):
npm run loginReload MCP in Cursor (or restart Claude Desktop), then ask your assistant:
Search WaaS for remote engineering jobs and inspect one at random.
Related MCP server: workatastartup-mcp
Cursor / Claude MCP config
Merge into ~/.cursor/mcp.json (or Claude Desktop config). Use the absolute path where you cloned the repo:
{
"mcpServers": {
"waas": {
"command": "node",
"args": ["/path/to/waas-mcp/dist/index.js"]
}
}
}See mcp.json.example. Session is stored at ~/.waas-mcp/storage-state.json after npm run login.
Claude Desktop (.mcpb)
One-click bundle (build from a clone):
npm run pack:mcpbInstall waas-mcp.mcpb via Claude Desktop → Settings → Extensions. Then run npm run login from the extension folder once (see Claude's extension install path).
What it does
Step | Tool |
Check weekly cap |
|
Get my profile |
|
Preview as companies see it |
|
Update profile |
|
Edit Share |
|
Edit Skills |
|
Draft optimized profile |
|
Audit profile |
|
|
|
Read job |
|
Read company |
|
Inspect apply form |
|
Submit |
|
Track |
|
Check login |
|
Application types (waas_inspect_application)
Type | Meaning |
| Resume URL, multiple choice, text questions — includes required |
| Default "message the founder" textarea |
| Greenhouse, email, etc. — won't auto-submit |
| Skip |
| 10/week cap hit — won't auto-submit ( |
| Run |
Weekly application cap
Work at a Startup limits 10 in-app applications per calendar week (week starts Monday). When the cap is reached, the Apply modal is blocked or shows a limit message.
The MCP tracks usage by counting your candidate messages in GET /api/conversations since Monday (re-applies to existing company threads count separately). It also merges ~/.waas-mcp/applied.json when a recent MCP submit is not yet in the API. Check countNote on quota responses. WaaS's server-side cap may still differ slightly — keep a 1–2 application buffer.
Example workflow
waas_application_quota {}
waas_search { "role": "eng", "remote": true, "limit": 10 }
waas_inspect_application { "job_id": "99221" }
waas_submit_application {
"job_id": "99221",
"answers": { "question_1981": "Your drafted answer..." },
"dry_run": true
}Only set dry_run: false after you explicitly approve.
Manual install
If you prefer not to use install.sh:
npm install # runs build + Playwright chromium via lifecycle scripts
npm run loginUpgrade
cd waas-mcp && git pull && npm installReload MCP in Cursor after updating.
Claude Desktop (.mcpb)
Claude does not auto-update installed extensions. After a new release:
Download
waas-mcp.mcpbfrom ReleasesClaude → Settings → Extensions → remove old WaaS extension
Install the new
.mcpb(drag & drop or file picker)Quit Claude completely (Cmd+Q) and reopen — MCP servers only restart on app launch
Or point Claude at a git clone via claude_desktop_config.json (same snippet as Cursor) to pick up git pull + npm run build without reinstalling the bundle.
Command | Purpose |
| Run MCP server (stdio) |
| One-time YC / WaaS sign-in |
| Unit tests |
| Live smoke test against workatastartup.com |
| Build Claude Desktop |
Credits
Parsing adapted from workatastartup-mcp (MIT).
License
MIT — see LICENSE.
Available Tools
15 toolswaas_application_quotaWeekly application quotaA
Check Work at a Startup weekly in-app application cap (10/week). Counts candidate messages since Monday from /api/conversations, merged with ~/.waas-mcp/applied.json for recent MCP submits.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It discloses that this is a read-only check via 'Check' and 'Counts', describes the count window ('since Monday'), and names the two data sources plus how they are combined. It omits minor details like timezone handling or output format, but the core behavior is transparent.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two sentences with no filler. The first sentence states the purpose and threshold, while the second provides the necessary data-source detail. The structure is front-loaded and every clause earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a zero-parameter, read-only quota tool, the description covers what is being counted, the time window, the threshold, and the source files. It does not describe the return format, which would be helpful, but the absence is acceptable given no output schema is declared.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters and the schema coverage is effectively 100%. The description explains the meaningful inputs conceptually by naming the data sources and merge behavior, which is all that is needed here.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states a specific check operation ('Check Work at a Startup weekly in-app application cap') and gives a concrete threshold (10/week). This distinguishes it from the sibling tools that handle authentication, search, submission, and listing.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The usage context is clear: an agent should call this when it needs to know the current weekly application quota or remaining capacity. It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusion cases, but with zero parameters and this narrow purpose, the intent is easy to infer.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_audit_profileAudit WAAS profileA
Diagnose weak/missing/wrong profile entries. Returns gaps[], wrong_dates[], demote_or_remove[], suggested_order[], plus share/skills notes. Optional source_paths (resume/checklist markdown) and expect[] names for gap detection. Requires login.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| expect | No | Extra names that should appear on the live profile (e.g. Zhang Lab). | |
| source_paths | No | Local resume/checklist/markdown paths to extract expected company/project names. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden. It does disclose key behaviors: it returns specific diagnostic arrays, accepts optional inputs, and requires login. However, it does not explicitly state that the tool is read-only/non-mutating, nor does it mention other potential side effects, limits, or error conditions.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is two sentences, front-loaded with the core purpose and output, then details optional inputs and a prerequisite. Every clause adds information; there is no filler or redundancy.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a tool with no output schema, the description adequately explains return values (gaps[], wrong_dates[], etc.) and inputs, and flags the login requirement. It could be more complete by specifying what 'share/skills notes' contains or what triggers 'wrong_dates', but it already gives enough context for an agent to call the tool correctly with optional parameters.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents both parameters. The description restates their purpose ('source_paths (resume/checklist markdown)', 'expect[] names for gap detection') but adds minimal new meaning beyond the schema. This is the baseline 3 for high schema coverage.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('Diagnose') and resource ('profile entries'), and clearly distinguishes this audit tool from siblings like waas_get_profile, waas_update_profile, and waas_draft_profile by focusing on diagnostic output (gaps, wrong dates, etc.). An agent can immediately understand what this tool does and how it differs.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies usage through context: it is for diagnosing profile issues, optionally using source_paths and expect[]. It states a prerequisite ('Requires login'). However, it does not explicitly say when to choose this over waas_preview_profile or waas_get_profile, and it lacks clear exclusions or alternative routing.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_auth_statusCheck login sessionB
Check Work at a Startup login session (~/.waas-mcp/storage-state.json or cookie.txt).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations are absent, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses the files inspected (~/.waas-mcp/storage-state.json or cookie.txt), which adds some context, but it does not state whether the tool is read-only, what output it produces, or how it indicates success/failure. For a status check tool, this is notably incomplete.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
A single concise sentence front-loads the action and resource, with the file path detail in a parenthetical. No wasted words; every element earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With no output schema and no annotations, the description should explain what the agent can expect from the call or when to use it, but it does not. The tool is simple, yet leaving out the return/status semantics and usage context makes it under-specified for an agent deciding how to act on the result.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters, so the schema already covers everything. Baseline 4 for zero params is appropriate; the description adds no parameter information, but none is needed.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb ('Check') and resource ('Work at a Startup login session'), and even names the underlying storage files. This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like waas_search or waas_get_job, which perform entirely different actions.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
No guidance on when to call this tool versus alternatives. It does not state that this should be used as a prerequisite before other waas tools, nor does it mention any conditions for usage. The agent is left to infer context from the name.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_draft_profileDraft optimized profileA
Build a paste-ready Experience/Education/Share/Skills update payload from local optimized WAAS markdown drafts and/or resume/bank files. Does not write live — returns update_payload for waas_update_profile dry_run. Requires login only when compare_live is true (default).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| compare_live | No | Match draft entries to live profile ids (default true). | |
| source_paths | Yes | Paths to waas_profile_optimized_*.md and/or resume/bank .md/.tex/.txt files. | |
| include_optional | No | Include Optional N experience entries from the draft (default false). |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It clarifies the tool does not write live, requires login conditionally, and returns a payload for dry_run, which is critical behavioral info. It doesn't disclose error handling or what happens when files are missing, but the core non-destructive behavior is well covered.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is three sentences with zero filler. It front-loads the primary purpose, immediately clarifies non-destructive behavior, and states the conditional login requirement. Every sentence earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a tool with 3 simple parameters, full schema coverage, and no output schema, the description is quite complete. It explains the output is an update_payload for dry_run, which is key. Missing are return structure details, but since no output schema exists, that could be a gap; however, the tool's simplicity and clear purpose mitigate this.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The schema already covers all parameters at 100% with clear descriptions. The description adds value by hinting at file types (WAAS markdown, resume/bank files) and the semantics of compare_live, which supplements the schema. However, it doesn't detail how include_optional interacts with the payload, but schema covers its meaning.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states it builds a paste-ready update payload from local drafts, a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself by explicitly noting it does not write live and pairs with waas_update_profile for dry_run, differentiating from siblings like waas_preview_profile and waas_update_profile.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description implies usage for preparing updates without writing, and mentions compare_live requires login. It does not explicitly list when not to use this tool versus alternatives, but the clear reference to waas_update_profile dry_run provides context. A slight gap is not stating scenarios where one should use waas_preview_profile or waas_audit_profile instead.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_edit_skillsEdit top skillsA
Replace or merge WAAS top skills (max 10) with beginner|intermediate|advanced ratings. dry_run=true by default. Requires login.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| mode | No | Default replace. | |
| items | No | ||
| dry_run | No | Default true — preview only. | |
| remove_ids | No | ||
| remove_names | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It does disclose the dry_run default and login requirement, which are key behaviors. However, it leaves the exact semantics of replace vs merge and the role of remove_ids/remove_names unspecified, and there is no annotation to fill these gaps.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, well-structured sentence. It front-loads the action, includes the maximum count and rating levels, and ends with the critical dry_run default. No filler or redundant phrasing.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a 5-parameter tool with no output schema and no annotations, this description is too thin. The two removal parameters (remove_ids, remove_names) are completely unexplained, and the merge/replace distinction is not elaborated enough for an agent to safely invoke the tool without guessing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is only 40%, so the description should compensate. It clarifies the mode and dry_run behavior, but it mostly repeats the enum and maxItems already present in the schema. It says nothing about remove_ids or remove_names, leaving two parameters effectively undocumented.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific operation ('Replace or merge') on a specific resource ('WAAS top skills') with clear constraints (max 10, rating levels). This clearly distinguishes it from siblings like waas_edit_share and waas_update_profile, which target different aspects of the profile.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It provides some usage context by naming the two modes (replace vs merge) and the default dry_run=true behavior, but it does not explicitly state when to prefer this tool over alternatives or mention exclusions. The intended usage is implied from the purpose, not explicitly routed.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_get_companyGet company profileB
Fetch company profile, founders, and open roles.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| slug | Yes | Company slug or /companies/acme URL. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are present, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses a read-only intent with 'Fetch' and lists the returned data categories, which is useful. However, it does not mention authentication needs, error behavior, or response structure, leaving some transparency gaps.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single front-loaded sentence with no filler. It communicates the action, resource, and key returned data efficiently.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple one-parameter read tool, the description covers the core purpose and returned data. However, there is no output schema and no mention of auth or error behavior, so the description is minimally viable but not fully complete.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema coverage is 100%, with the slug parameter clearly described as 'Company slug or /companies/acme URL.' The description does not repeat or extend parameter details, but the schema already provides sufficient meaning, so the baseline 3 applies.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the action ('Fetch') and resource ('company profile'), and adds useful scope ('founders, and open roles'). It implies differentiation from siblings like waas_get_job and waas_search by targeting a specific entity, though it does not explicitly name alternatives.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
No guidance is provided about when to use this tool versus siblings such as waas_get_job or waas_search. There are no exclusions, prerequisites, or contextual cues beyond the tool name and resource, so the agent must infer usage.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_get_jobGet job postingA
Fetch full job posting (description, comp, visa, skills). Works logged out for public pages. WORKFLOW (required):
waas_application_quota (or waas_search weeklyQuota) — check remaining in-app applications this week (cap is 10).
waas_search with structured filters (or waas_get_job from a URL the user provides).
waas_get_job + waas_get_company for full context.
waas_inspect_application — returns applicationType, fields[], weeklyQuota, applyBlocked.
If applicationType=weekly_limit_reached or applyBlocked=true → stop; do NOT submit.
If applicationType=external → report link/email to user; do NOT auto-submit.
If applicationType=needs_login → tell user to run npm run login.
Draft answers for every required field in fields[].
waas_submit_application with dry_run=true — show the user all answers.
Only after explicit approval → dry_run=false. Never auto-submit. Skip already_applied jobs.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| job_id | Yes | Numeric id or /jobs/123 URL. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are present, so the description carries the behavioral burden. It discloses that the tool works logged out for public pages and includes a workflow with safeguards like "Never auto-submit" and "Skip already_applied jobs." However, it does not explicitly state that fetching is read-only, describe error behavior, or clarify what happens for non-public jobs.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The summary line is front-loaded and useful, and the workflow is numbered for readability. However, the description embeds a lengthy 10-step application workflow that concerns several sibling tools, not just waas_get_job. This is structured but not concise, and some steps go well beyond the tool's own behavior.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a simple one-parameter fetch tool with no output schema, the description provides solid context: it names core returned fields (description, comp, visa, skills), explains logged-out access, and gives integration order relative to siblings. It could add return-format or error details, but the essential operational context is present.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The sole parameter job_id is already documented in the schema as "Numeric id or /jobs/123 URL," giving 100% schema description coverage. The tool description adds no additional parameter-level meaning beyond what the schema provides, so the baseline 3 is appropriate.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description opens with a specific verb and resource: "Fetch full job posting (description, comp, visa, skills)." This clearly distinguishes waas_get_job from siblings like waas_search or waas_list_applied. The title 'Get job posting' reinforces the same purpose without ambiguity.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The required workflow explicitly positions this tool after waas_search or a user-provided URL and before waas_get_company and waas_inspect_application. It also notes "Works logged out for public pages," giving useful context about when authentication is not needed. It stops short of explicitly listing when-not-to-use alternatives, but the workflow is strong guidance.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_get_profileGet my WAAS profileA
Fetch your live Work at a Startup candidate profile: experience, education, skills, share copy (short_phrase / looking_for / proud_project), and role/location preferences. Requires login.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are present, so the description carries the burden. It discloses the auth requirement ('Requires login'), signals a read-only operation via 'Fetch', and indicates data freshness with 'live'. It does not discuss errors or rate limits, but for a zero-parameter getter this is adequate.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
One sentence front-loads the action and resource, then compresses the field list with parentheticals and ends with the auth note. Every phrase earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a no-argument read operation, the description tells the agent exactly what it will get (profile sections), whose profile ('your'), and what precondition is required (login). No output schema exists, but the field list provides the missing return-value context; no essential calling information is absent.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
There are zero parameters and an empty schema, so there is no parameter semantics to clarify; baseline 4 applies. The description instead explains what will be returned (experience, education, skills, share copy, preferences), which adds value beyond the schema.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
States a specific verb ('Fetch'), a concrete resource ('your live Work at a Startup candidate profile'), and enumerates the major profile sections. The word 'live' separates it from draft/preview siblings, so an agent can distinguish intent even without opening the tool.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description gives clear context: use it to retrieve the current saved profile, and it flags that login is required. It does not explicitly name alternatives like waas_preview_profile or waas_draft_profile, but 'live' and 'your' are enough to imply the appropriate use case.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_inspect_applicationInspect application formA
Inspect how to apply: returns applicationType, required fields (message, resume URL, multiple choice, etc.), external apply hints, and whether you're already applied. WORKFLOW (required):
waas_application_quota (or waas_search weeklyQuota) — check remaining in-app applications this week (cap is 10).
waas_search with structured filters (or waas_get_job from a URL the user provides).
waas_get_job + waas_get_company for full context.
waas_inspect_application — returns applicationType, fields[], weeklyQuota, applyBlocked.
If applicationType=weekly_limit_reached or applyBlocked=true → stop; do NOT submit.
If applicationType=external → report link/email to user; do NOT auto-submit.
If applicationType=needs_login → tell user to run npm run login.
Draft answers for every required field in fields[].
waas_submit_application with dry_run=true — show the user all answers.
Only after explicit approval → dry_run=false. Never auto-submit. Skip already_applied jobs.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| job_id | Yes | Numeric id or /jobs/123 URL. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations provided, the description carries full behavioral disclosure. It explains exactly what the tool returns, what applicationType values mean, how applyBlocked should gate submission, and that external applications must be reported rather than auto-submitted.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is front-loaded with what the tool returns, followed by a clearly numbered workflow. Though long, every line adds operational value: order, alternatives, stop conditions, and approval gates. The structure makes it easy to follow.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given the tool's role in a multi-step application flow, the description covers prerequisites, ordering, conditional branches, auth handling, and safety requirements. It names return fields and applicationType variants even without an output schema, so an agent has enough context to invoke it correctly.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema coverage is 100%, and the schema already documents job_id as either a numeric id or a /jobs/123 URL. The description does not add parameter-level detail beyond that, so the baseline of 3 is appropriate.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a precise verb and resource: inspecting an application form to return applicationType, required fields, external apply hints, and applied status. This clearly differentiates it from sibling tools like waas_get_job, waas_search, and waas_submit_application.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The required WORKFLOW explicitly orders this tool after quota checks and job/company retrieval, names the sibling alternatives at each step, and gives clear stop conditions for external, needs_login, and weekly_limit_reached cases. It also instructs to skip already_applied jobs and never auto-submit.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_list_appliedList applied jobsA
List jobs you've submitted via this MCP (local tracker at ~/.waas-mcp/applied.json).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations provided, the description carries the full behavioral burden. It discloses that the data comes from a local tracker file (~/.waas-mcp/applied.json), implying a local read operation with no network dependency, and 'List' signals non-destructive behavior. It does not mention ordering or return format, but the core behavioral context is covered.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single, well-structured sentence that front-loads the core action and resource, then adds the useful local tracker path. Every word contributes value with no redundancy or filler.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
For a zero-parameter, local-only list operation, the description is largely complete: it states what is listed, the scope, and the data source. The only minor gap is the absence of return-shape details, since no output schema exists, but for a simple list operation this is not a significant obstacle.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters and 100% schema description coverage, so there are no parameter semantics for the description to clarify. Per the baseline for zero-parameter tools, the description appropriately has nothing to add beyond confirming the scope.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('List') and a clear resource ('jobs you've submitted via this MCP'), and it distinguishes this tool from siblings like waas_search and waas_get_job by scoping to the user's own submitted applications. The local tracker path further disambiguates its exact domain.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description clearly conveys that this tool is for listing jobs submitted through this MCP and stored locally, which implies it is the right choice when tracking one's own applications rather than searching all jobs. It lacks an explicit 'use X instead when...' statement, but the context is strong enough for an agent to decide correctly.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_preview_profilePreview company-facing profileA
Fetch the founder/company-facing rendering of your WAAS profile (same data as the in-app Preview iframe): headline, share copy, pretty experience/education strings, skills, and links. Use after edits to QA without asking the user to click Preview. Requires login.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations provided, the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden. It conveys that this is a read-only fetch operation, lists the returned content, and notes that login is required. This is meaningful context beyond the tool's name and title.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is two sentences with no filler. It front-loads the core purpose, lists the returned data fields, gives the intended use case, and states the auth requirement. Every sentence earns its place.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
This is a simple, parameterless, read-only preview tool with no output schema. The description covers what the tool returns, why it should be used, and its auth requirement. Nothing an agent needs to invoke it correctly is missing.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The tool has zero parameters, so parameter-semantic coverage is fully satisfied by the empty schema. The description appropriately avoids inventing parameter details; the baseline of 4 applies because there is no parameter information to provide.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description uses a specific verb ('Fetch') and resource ('founder/company-facing rendering of your WAAS profile'), and clarifies this is the same data as the in-app Preview iframe. This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like waas_get_profile or waas_update_profile, which deal with raw or editable profile data.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
It explicitly states when to use the tool: after edits, to QA without asking the user to click Preview. It does not explicitly list exclusions or name alternative sibling tools, but the trigger condition is concrete enough for an agent to select it appropriately.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_searchSearch jobsB
Search YC Work at a Startup jobs with structured filters. Builds the search URL automatically. WORKFLOW (required):
waas_application_quota (or waas_search weeklyQuota) — check remaining in-app applications this week (cap is 10).
waas_search with structured filters (or waas_get_job from a URL the user provides).
waas_get_job + waas_get_company for full context.
waas_inspect_application — returns applicationType, fields[], weeklyQuota, applyBlocked.
If applicationType=weekly_limit_reached or applyBlocked=true → stop; do NOT submit.
If applicationType=external → report link/email to user; do NOT auto-submit.
If applicationType=needs_login → tell user to run npm run login.
Draft answers for every required field in fields[].
waas_submit_application with dry_run=true — show the user all answers.
Only after explicit approval → dry_run=false. Never auto-submit. Skip already_applied jobs.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| role | No | Role category filter. | |
| limit | No | Max results (default 30). | |
| query | No | Keyword search. | |
| remote | No | true = remote only, false = on-site only. | |
| sort_by | No | ||
| us_visa | No | ||
| job_type | No | ||
| has_equity | No | ||
| has_salary | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose side effects and safety. It only mentions that the tool 'Builds the search URL automatically' and is a search operation, implicitly non-mutating, but does not state whether it modifies state, has rate limits, or what it returns. The 'Never auto-submit' instruction is about the agent's workflow, not the tool's behavior, so it does not clarify search behavior.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The opening two sentences are concise and front-loaded. However, the description then appends a 10-step workflow that spans multiple sibling tools, making the definition overly long and diluting focus on the search tool itself. The workflow could be a separate reference; embedding it in this tool's description is not concise.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
With 9 parameters (5 undocumented), no output schema, and no return-format description, the agent lacks critical context for invoking the tool correctly. The workflow mentions later steps (waas_get_job + waas_get_company) but does not describe what waas_search actually returns, how results are paginated, or how to handle ambiguous enums. This is incomplete for a structured search tool.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Input schema covers only 44% of parameters with descriptions (4 of 9). The description adds no meaning for sort_by, us_visa, job_type, has_equity, or has_salary. It merely refers to 'structured filters' generically. It even introduces 'weeklyQuota' which is not in the schema, adding confusion rather than compensating for the parameter coverage gap.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The first sentence clearly states the tool's function: 'Search YC Work at a Startup jobs with structured filters.' It also adds a distinct behavioral note ('Builds the search URL automatically'). Step 2 contrasts it with waas_get_job, helping differentiate it from siblings.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Step 2 provides a conditional alternative: use waas_search with structured filters, or waas_get_job if the user supplies a URL. The workflow also instructs to skip already_applied jobs. However, the guideline is embedded in a multi-step workflow rather than stated as a crisp when-to-use rule, and there is no explicit 'do not use' condition.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_submit_applicationSubmit applicationA
Submit application answers. Pass a map of field names → values (see waas_inspect_application fields). Default dry_run=true. WORKFLOW (required):
waas_application_quota (or waas_search weeklyQuota) — check remaining in-app applications this week (cap is 10).
waas_search with structured filters (or waas_get_job from a URL the user provides).
waas_get_job + waas_get_company for full context.
waas_inspect_application — returns applicationType, fields[], weeklyQuota, applyBlocked.
If applicationType=weekly_limit_reached or applyBlocked=true → stop; do NOT submit.
If applicationType=external → report link/email to user; do NOT auto-submit.
If applicationType=needs_login → tell user to run npm run login.
Draft answers for every required field in fields[].
waas_submit_application with dry_run=true — show the user all answers.
Only after explicit approval → dry_run=false. Never auto-submit. Skip already_applied jobs.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| job_id | Yes | ||
| answers | Yes | Field answers, e.g. { "message": "...", "question_1981": "...", "question_2839": "https://..." } | |
| dry_run | No | Default true — preview only. |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the full transparency burden, and it more than meets it: dry_run defaults to true, auto-submission is forbidden, explicit approval is required, weekly quota and applyBlocked are checked, and external/needs_login cases are handled. This is unusually clear about side effects and guardrails.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Although long, the description is tightly structured: the one-line purpose is front-loaded, and the numbered workflow is dense with actionable instructions. The repetition of 'never auto-submit' and the approval requirement reinforces a critical safety rule rather than wasting space.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
The description is highly complete for pre-submission behavior, covering quota checks, context gathering, inspection, dry-run approval, and blocked cases. It does not describe the expected result or error behavior after a real dry_run=false submission, which would be useful given there is no output schema.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The description adds meaning to 'answers' by pointing to waas_inspect_application fields and reinforces the dry_run default. However, job_id is only present in the schema and inferred from the workflow steps rather than explicitly described, leaving a small semantic gap.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the tool submits application answers and distinguishes it from sibling tools by referencing waas_inspect_application fields and the submission workflow. It also clarifies what this tool is not for: external applications, blocked/limit-reached applications, and login-required applications.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
The description provides a mandatory 10-step workflow that names the exact sibling tools to call before submission and specifies conditions that should stop the agent from submitting. It explicitly states when not to submit and requires explicit user approval before dry_run=false.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
waas_update_profileUpdate WAAS profileA
Write Experience/Education, Skills, and/or Share on your WAAS profile. Experience helpers: fix_dates, set_current, rename, remove_match, remove_ids, order. dry_run=true by default — returns a before/after diff. Only set dry_run=false after explicit user approval. Requires login.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| share | No | ||
| skills | No | ||
| dry_run | No | Default true — preview diff only; no writes. | |
| education | No | ||
| experience | No |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the transparency burden. It discloses the dry-run default, the before/after diff return, the approval requirement for real writes, and the login prerequisite. This is meaningful behavioral context beyond the schema, though it doesn't describe side effects or error behavior.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Three dense sentences, front-loaded with the action, then helpers, then the critical dry-run/approval guardrail. Every sentence earns its place; no filler or repetition.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
The tool is complex (5 nested params, no output schema, low schema coverage), and the description covers the central safety flow (dry-run -> approval) but omits details like response format for real writes, error conditions, and how sections interact. Adequate but with clear gaps.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is only 20%, so the description needs to compensate. It adds practical semantics for the experience helpers (fix_dates, set_current, rename, remove_match, remove_ids, order) and explains dry_run's role, but it doesn't explain the share, education, or skills payload semantics beyond what the schema already states.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
Description states a specific verb and resource: 'Write Experience/Education, Skills, and/or Share on your WAAS profile.' That is clear, but it does not differentiate from sibling tools like waas_edit_skills and waas_edit_share, so it stops short of a 5.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Provides key usage guardrails: dry_run defaults to true, returns before/after diff, and dry_run=false requires explicit user approval; also states login requirement. However, it gives no explicit guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives (e.g., waas_edit_skills for skills-only edits), so usage context is implied rather than explicit.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Tool Schema Changelog
Recent tool additions, removals, and schema changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
7 tool updates
v0.2.13- Added
waas_audit_profile - Added
waas_draft_profile - Added
waas_edit_share - Added
waas_edit_skills - Added
waas_get_profile - Added
waas_preview_profile - Added
waas_update_profile
8 tool updates
v0.2.5- First observed
waas_application_quota - First observed
waas_auth_status - First observed
waas_get_company - First observed
waas_get_job - First observed
waas_inspect_application - First observed
waas_list_applied - First observed
waas_search - First observed
waas_submit_application
TDQS
Scored across 15 tools
Tools cluster into profile management and job application workflows, but waas_get_profile vs waas_preview_profile and waas_update_profile vs waas_edit_skills/waas_edit_share create some boundary confusion. Descriptions do differentiate them (live data vs rendered QA, bulk write vs targeted edits), so most selections are clear.
All tools share the waas_ prefix and mostly use verb_noun patterns like preview_profile, update_profile, and inspect_application. A few are noun phrases (waas_application_quota, waas_auth_status) or a bare verb (waas_search), which breaks the pattern but remains readable.
Fifteen tools cover both profile editing and job application workflows, which is appropriate for the server's scope. It is at the high end of the ideal range, and some tools like waas_edit_skills and waas_auth_status could be folded into others, but each has a defensible purpose.
The profile surface is thorough: get, preview, audit, draft, update, and targeted edits. The job application flow is fully covered from search through inspection to dry-run submission, though there is no tool for viewing recruiter conversations or withdrawing applications.
Maintenance
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