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gyger

Zotero MCP Connector

by gyger

get_items_metadata

Retrieve detailed metadata for specific items in your Zotero library, including abstracts, BibTeX keys, and optional fulltext content.

Instructions

Get detailed information on specific item(s) in the library

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
item_keyYesItem key(s) to retrieve. Multiple keys are separated by comma.
include_fulltextNoInclude fulltext content (default: False)
include_abstractNoInclude abstract (default: True)
include_bibtexNoInclude BibTeX key (default: True)

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states this is a 'Get' operation, implying read-only behavior, but doesn't cover critical aspects like authentication needs, rate limits, error handling, or what 'detailed information' includes. For a tool with no annotations, this is a significant gap in transparency.

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 a single, efficient sentence that front-loads the core purpose ('Get detailed information on specific item(s) in the library'). It avoids redundancy and waste, though it could be slightly more structured (e.g., by hinting at parameters).

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?

Given the tool's moderate complexity (4 parameters, 1 required) and the presence of an output schema (which handles return values), the description is minimally adequate. However, with no annotations and no sibling differentiation, it lacks completeness for safe and effective use. The description should compensate more for the missing annotation context.

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 has 100% description coverage, with clear documentation for all parameters (e.g., 'item_key' for retrieval, booleans for content inclusion). The description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, such as explaining parameter interactions or usage examples. Baseline 3 is appropriate since the schema does the heavy lifting.

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 verb ('Get') and resource ('detailed information on specific item(s) in the library'), making the purpose understandable. However, it doesn't explicitly distinguish this tool from its siblings like 'get_collection_items' or 'search_library', which likely retrieve items in different ways (e.g., by collection vs. by search).

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?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention siblings like 'get_collection_items' or 'search_library', nor does it specify prerequisites or exclusions (e.g., that 'item_key' is required). This leaves the agent without context for tool selection.

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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