mcp_aftereffects_applyEffect

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries full responsibility for behavioral disclosure. It offers no transparency about side effects (e.g., modifying the layer's effect stack), error conditions, or whether the effect is appended or replaces existing effects. The single sentence provides only the obvious action.

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 sentence with no wasted words, but it is under-specified rather than appropriately concise. It lacks any structured detail or context that would make it useful for an agent deciding how to invoke the tool.

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 annotations, no output schema, and a tool that has 5 parameters including a nested object and two effect identifier variants, the description leaves out important context such as prerequisites, side effects, error behavior, and when to use effectName versus effectMatchName. The schema covers parameter meaning but not operational context.

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 itself does not explain any parameters, but the input schema covers all 5 parameters with detailed descriptions and examples, so schema coverage is 100%. The baseline for high schema coverage is 3, and the description adds no extra 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?

The description clearly states the action (apply) and target (an effect to a layer in After Effects). However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools like 'apply-effect' or 'apply-effect-template', which might have similar purposes.

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 no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It does not mention prerequisites, such as requiring an active composition or selected layer, nor does it explain when to prefer effectMatchName over effectName.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.