Skip to main content
Glama
keemyschmidt

After Effects MCP Server

by keemyschmidt

mcp_aftereffects_applyEffectTemplate

Applies a predefined effect template to a specific layer in After Effects using composition and layer indices. Accepts optional custom settings to override defaults.

Instructions

Apply a predefined effect template to a layer in After Effects

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
compIndexYes1-based index of the target composition in the project panel.
layerIndexYes1-based index of the target layer within the composition.
templateNameYesName of the effect template to apply.
customSettingsNoOptional custom settings to override defaults.
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are present, so the description must carry the full behavioral burden. It only states the action without disclosing side effects (e.g., whether existing effects are replaced, whether it modifies the layer permanently, or what happens with customSettings).

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?

The description is a single, concise sentence with no extraneous words. It is front-loaded and immediately communicates the tool's core action.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Despite having 4 parameters including a nested object and an enum, the description provides minimal context. It does not explain return values, potential errors, or the purpose/effects of templates. With no output schema or annotations, the description is insufficient for a tool of this 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?

Schema coverage is 100%, with all four parameters described, including an enum for templateName. The description adds no additional parameter semantics, but the baseline 3 is appropriate when schema handles the documentation.

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 the action ('Apply') and the resource ('predefined effect template to a layer in After Effects'). It is specific enough to distinguish from sibling 'apply-effect' by mentioning 'template'.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as 'mcp_aftereffects_applyEffect'. There are no contextual cues, exclusions, or sibling comparisons.

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

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/keemyschmidt/AE-MCP-TEST'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server