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Playwright MCP Server

Official
by microsoft

browser_take_screenshot

Read-only

Capture a screenshot of the current page. Supports multiple formats, scaling options, and can target specific elements or the full page.

Instructions

Take a screenshot of the current page. You can't perform actions based on the screenshot, use browser_snapshot for actions.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
typeYesImage format for the screenshot. Default is png.png
scaleYesImage resolution scale. "css" produces a screenshot sized in CSS pixels (smaller, consistent across devices). "device" produces a high-resolution screenshot using device pixels (larger, accounts for the device pixel ratio). Default is css.css
targetNoExact target element reference from the page snapshot, or a unique element selector
elementNoHuman-readable element description used to obtain permission to interact with the element
filenameNoFile name to save the screenshot to. Defaults to `page-{timestamp}.{png|jpeg}` if not specified. Prefer relative file names to stay within the output directory.
fullPageNoWhen true, takes a screenshot of the full scrollable page, instead of the currently visible viewport. Cannot be used with element screenshots.
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false. The description adds the behavioral constraint that actions cannot be performed on the screenshot, which is context beyond annotations. It does not discuss return format or other behaviors, but the key point is covered.

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?

Two sentences, zero waste. The first sentence states the primary action, the second adds a critical usage constraint. Perfectly front-loaded and concise.

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 6 parameters and no output schema, the description could mention the return format (e.g., base64 or file path). However, the schema descriptions are thorough, and the key usage context is provided. A small gap exists regarding return value details.

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 baseline is 3. The description adds no information about parameters beyond what the schema already provides. No additional meaning is given to the 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 tool takes a screenshot of the current page and explicitly distinguishes it from browser_snapshot, which is for actions. The verb 'take a screenshot' and resource 'current page' are specific and unambiguous.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

The description directly tells when to use this tool (taking a screenshot) and when not to (actions must use browser_snapshot). It provides clear guidance on alternatives and limitations.

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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