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pdf_read

Extract readable text from any PDF document to access its contents directly.

Instructions

Read text content from a PDF file

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Implementation Reference

  • server.js:62-62 (registration)
    The tool 'pdf_read' is registered as part of the TOOLS array on line 62.
    ["pdf_read", "Read text content from a PDF file"],
  • server.js:106-109 (registration)
    The tool is registered via the generic loop using server.tool(). It is a stub - the real handler is in a native binary.
    for (const [name, desc] of TOOLS) {
      server.tool(name, desc, {}, async () => ({
        content: [{ type: "text", text: "This is an inspection stub. Install Local MCP: npx -y local-mcp@latest setup" }],
      }));
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, and the description does not disclose any behavioral traits such as handling of scanned PDFs, restrictions, or output format. The agent has no insight into potential failures or constraints.

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, front-loaded sentence with no wasted words. It is optimally concise and easy to parse.

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?

With no output schema and no annotations, the description fails to provide essential context about the return value (e.g., plain text, structure) or limitations (e.g., password protection, image-only PDFs). The brevity leaves critical gaps.

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?

There are no parameters, so the schema coverage is 100% by default. The description does not need to add parameter semantics, and the absence is acceptable given zero parameters.

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 verb 'read' and the resource 'PDF file', making the purpose unambiguous. It is distinct from sibling tools like 'read_email' or 'ppt_read' which operate on different file types.

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. There is no mention of limitations, prerequisites, or when not to use it, leaving the agent without context for 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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