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get_video_info

Read-onlyIdempotent

Retrieve video metadata for any URL from YouTube or other supported sites. Get title, uploader, duration, view count, thumbnail, and available qualities without downloading the video.

Instructions

Look up metadata for a video URL (YouTube and hundreds of other sites via yt-dlp) without downloading it. Returns title, uploader, duration, view count, thumbnail, and available video qualities. For playlist URLs, only the first video is inspected.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYesThe video URL to look up (e.g. a YouTube link).
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and non-destructive. Description adds specific return fields, confirms no download, and notes playlist behavior. No contradiction.

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?

Three sentences, front-loaded with core purpose, no fluff. Every sentence adds value.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Despite no output schema, description lists key return fields. Covers playlist edge case. Adequate for a simple lookup tool with one parameter.

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 a clear description for the single url parameter. Description adds minimal extra beyond the schema's example 'e.g. a YouTube link'. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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?

Clear verb (look up metadata) and resource (video URL). Explicitly states it does not download, distinguishing from sibling download_video. Mentions support for YouTube and hundreds of other sites via yt-dlp.

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?

Implies use for metadata inspection without downloading, and notes limitation for playlists (only first video). Does not explicitly say when not to use or name alternatives, but sibling tool name provides contrast.

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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