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set-layer-parent

Set or clear a layer's parent within its composition to inherit position, rotation, and scale. Specify target and parent layers, or clear existing parent.

Instructions

Set (or clear) a layer's parent within its composition - the standard After Effects parent/child rig, where the child inherits the parent's position/rotation/scale. Select the target layer and, to set a parent, the parent layer; to remove an existing parent instead, set clearParent to true (parentLayerIndex/parentLayerName are then ignored).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
compNameNoComposition name (or active comp if omitted).
compIndexNo1-based comp index, if compName is omitted.
layerNameNoName of the layer to parent (alternative to layerIndex).
layerIndexNo1-based index of the layer to parent.
clearParentNoRemove the layer's existing parent instead of setting a new one.
parentLayerNameNoName of the layer to parent to (alternative to parentLayerIndex).
parentLayerIndexNo1-based index of the layer to parent to.
Behavior4/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the burden. It discloses the inheritance behavior (position/rotation/scale), and notes that parentLayer params are ignored when clearParent is true. This is good, though it doesn't mention failure modes or whether changes are permanent.

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?

Two sentences pack in the core action, usage modes, and key behavior without fluff. Every clause adds value, and it's front-loaded with the main purpose.

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?

With 7 params and no required fields, the description provides context on how to use the tool (selecting layers) and the inheritance behavior. It covers the main scenarios but could mention edge cases like self-parenting or pre-existing parent relationships. Still, it's reasonably complete for the tool's complexity.

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?

Input schema already describes all 7 parameters with 100% coverage. The description adds the relationship between clearParent and other params, and clarifies selection order, but doesn't go beyond schema for each param individually. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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?

Description clearly states the tool sets or clears a layer's parent, explicitly differentiating it from sibling tools like delete-layer or reorder-layer. The parent/child rig explanation adds specific domain context that disambiguates it from similar layer operations.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Provides explicit instructions: select target layer and parent layer, or set clearParent to true to remove. It distinguishes between set and clear modes, though it doesn't discuss alternatives like changing parent vs. re-parenting, but that's adequately implicit.

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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