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kObsidian MCP

Edit Frontmatter

notes.frontmatter
Idempotent

Set or remove YAML frontmatter fields in Obsidian notes. Merge or replace entire frontmatter block. Idempotent operation on active vault or specified path.

Instructions

Set or unset fields in a note's YAML frontmatter. set is a map of {field: value} pairs to write; unset is a list of field names to delete. strategy:'merge' (default) leaves unspecified fields untouched; strategy:'replace' overwrites the entire frontmatter block with set (any field not in set is dropped). At least one of set or unset is required. Idempotent — re-running with the same arguments converges on the same frontmatter state.

Operates on the session-active vault (see vault.current — selectable via vault.select) unless an explicit vaultPath argument is passed, which always wins.

Examples:

Example 1 — Set two fields, merging with existing frontmatter:

{
  "path": "Projects/Alpha.md",
  "set": {
    "status": "in-progress",
    "owner": "behzat"
  }
}

Example 2 — Remove a field:

{
  "path": "Projects/Alpha.md",
  "unset": [
    "draft"
  ]
}

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYes
setNoMap of frontmatter fields to set. Values overwrite any existing entry.
unsetNoField names to delete from the frontmatter.
strategyNo`merge` (default) = combine with existing frontmatter; `replace` = overwrite the whole frontmatter block with `set` (ignores existing unspecified fields).merge
vaultPathNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
changedYesTrue if the tool altered vault state on this call; false if it was a no-op.
targetYesThe path or identifier the tool acted on.
summaryYesShort human-readable summary of what happened.
Behavior5/5

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

The description explicitly states idempotency, aligns with annotations (idempotentHint=true), and details the effect of 'merge' vs 'replace' on existing fields. No contradictions with annotations; adds behavioral context beyond annotations (e.g., vaultPath precedence).

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 structured with a clear opening, parameter definitions, vaultPath context, and two JSON examples. It is slightly verbose but remains focused and front-loaded. Every sentence adds value, though it could be tightened.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's complexity (5 parameters, nested objects, output schema), the description covers all aspects: parameter behavior, strategies, idempotency, vaultPath selection, and examples. With an output schema present, no need to detail return values.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Despite 60% schema coverage, the description compensates by explaining 'set' and 'unset' parameter semantics, the 'strategy' enum with merge/replace details, and the 'vaultPath' fallback behavior. Examples further clarify parameter usage.

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?

The description clearly states it sets or unsets fields in a note's YAML frontmatter, using specific verbs ('set', 'unset') and resource ('note's frontmatter'). It distinguishes from siblings like notes.edit by focusing solely on frontmatter manipulation.

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?

The description explains strategies (merge/replace), idempotency, and vaultPath fallback logic. However, it does not explicitly compare to sibling tools like notes.edit, which might also modify frontmatter. The examples and strategy details provide clear usage context.

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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