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lee-s-dev

youtube-research-mcp

by lee-s-dev

get_transcript

Retrieve captions from YouTube videos by URL or video ID for research and content analysis.

Instructions

Fetch a YouTube transcript by URL or video ID.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
url_or_video_idYes
languagesNo
preserve_formattingNo
force_refreshNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

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 only states that the tool 'fetches' a transcript, implying a read operation, but fails to mention auth requirements, rate limits, or behavior when a transcript is unavailable. The description is too sparse for safe invocation.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness3/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single sentence, which is concise, but it omits critical details that would fit in a few more sentences. It is front-loaded with the core action, but the brevity compromises completeness without earning its place.

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?

Given the tool has 4 parameters and an output schema, the description is incomplete. It does not explain the role of optional parameters like 'languages' or 'preserve_formatting', nor does it describe any nuances of transcript retrieval (e.g., auto-generated vs manual). The output schema exists but the description adds no context.

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

Parameters1/5

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

Schema description coverage is 0%, meaning the description provides no additional meaning for any parameter. Although the schema defines parameters like 'languages' and 'preserve_formatting', the description only mentions the required input. The agent gets no guidance on how to use optional parameters effectively.

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 'Fetch', the resource 'YouTube transcript', and the input method 'by URL or video ID'. This distinguishes it from sibling tools like analyze_channel or search_videos, which serve different purposes.

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?

The description provides minimal guidance on when to use this tool. It only mentions input options (URL or video ID) but does not specify when to use this vs alternatives, nor does it mention any prerequisites or limitations. This leaves the agent with insufficient 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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