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laststance

mac-mcp-server

by laststance

get_ui_elements

Retrieve the UI element tree for a specified macOS application. Set maxDepth to control tree depth and focus on relevant elements.

Instructions

Retrieves the UI element tree for an application. Use maxDepth to limit tree depth

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
appNameYesApplication name to get UI elements from
maxDepthNoMaximum tree traversal depth (default: 3)
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It states the tool retrieves a tree but lacks details on read-only nature, performance impacts, authentication needs, or error handling. This is insufficient transparency.

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 two sentences long, front-loaded with the core purpose, and every word is functional. No unnecessary information.

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

Completeness3/5

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

The tool is simple with two parameters and no output schema. The description is adequate but lacks details about the content of the UI element tree, behavior for missing apps, or performance notes. Completeness is moderate.

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%, so the schema already documents both parameters. The description adds minimal value by emphasizing 'maxDepth' usage, but does not significantly extend understanding 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 uses a specific verb ('retrieves') and resource ('UI element tree'), clearly indicating the tool's function. It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'click' or 'focus_ui_element' which perform actions, while this retrieves structure.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description mentions using 'maxDepth' to limit depth, providing a usage hint. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives, nor does it provide conditions for when not to use it.

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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