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ffmpeg_extract_frames

Extract frames from a video as images. Set an interval (one frame every N seconds) or a total frame count for even distribution. Choose output format: JPG, PNG, or BMP.

Instructions

Extract frames from a video as images.

Args:
    file_path: Path to the input video file
    interval: Extract one frame every N seconds (e.g., 1.0 for one frame per second)
    count: Total number of frames to extract (evenly distributed). Mutually exclusive with interval.
    format: Output image format (jpg, png, bmp)

Returns:
    Path to the directory containing extracted frames

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
file_pathYes
intervalNo
countNo
formatNojpg

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It mentions the return value but omits details on side effects, authorization needs, or file handling behavior (e.g., overwriting existing directories).

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 concise and structured with Args/Returns sections. Every sentence is useful, though it could be slightly more terse.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Given the tool's simplicity and the presence of an output schema (though not shown), the description adequately covers inputs and output. However, additional context on performance or disk usage would improve completeness.

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

Parameters4/5

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

Schema coverage is 0%, so the description fully defines all parameters: file_path, interval, count (with mutual exclusivity), and format with enum values. This adds high value beyond the schema.

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 'Extract frames from a video as images,' which is specific and distinguishes it from siblings like ffmpeg_extract_audio or ffmpeg_compress.

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 the key parameters and their mutual exclusivity (interval vs count), but does not explicitly guide when to use this tool versus other sibling tools.

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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