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gjjisadog

scipdf-mcp

by gjjisadog

download_paper

Download an academic paper PDF using DOI, title, URL, or citation. Retrieves from Sci-Hub or Unpaywall and returns the file path and citations.

Instructions

Download an academic paper PDF by DOI, title, URL, or citation. Default: Sci-Hub/pdfHosts. Optional Unpaywall OA only if SCIPDF_UNPAYWALL_EMAIL is set AND SCIPDF_PREFER_OA=true. Returns path, source (scihub|unpaywall|cache), citations. Use force=true to re-download.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
forceNoRe-download even if file exists (default false)
queryYesDOI (10.xxxx/...), title, publisher URL, or citation string
outdirNoOverride download directory
filenameNoOverride output filename
query_typeNoHow to interpret query: auto (default), doi, url, title, or citation
with_citationNoInclude APA/GB/T/BibTeX (default true)
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. States return values and force re-download, but omits state changes, auth needs, error handling, or behavior on missing paper.

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?

Three sentences, front-loaded purpose. Each sentence adds value. No filler.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Covers purpose, sources, conditional behavior, and return fields. Missing error states, prerequisites (e.g., Sci-Hub access), and edge cases for 6 parameters.

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 parameters are already documented. Description adds context for 'query' types and 'force' meaning, but does not significantly enhance understanding beyond schema.

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?

Clearly states 'Download an academic paper PDF by DOI, title, URL, or citation.' Specific verb and resource. However, does not explicitly distinguish from sibling 'download_papers' (plural).

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?

Provides conditional guidance for Unpaywall and 'force' parameter, but lacks when-to-use compared to siblings like resolve_doi or lookup_unpaywall. No explicit alternatives or scenarios.

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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