Skip to main content
Glama

add_item_to_collection

Add an item to a collection in your Zotero library using the item's key and the collection's key.

Instructions

Add an item to a collection.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
reqYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only says 'add', implying mutation, but fails to describe idempotency, error handling, or what happens if the item already exists in the collection. No additional context beyond the action is given.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

The description is a single sentence with no unnecessary words. However, conciseness should not come at the expense of informativeness. For a simple tool, this could be acceptable, but more detail would be beneficial.

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 simplicity of the tool (one parameter with two subfields), the description lacks important context such as return value (output schema exists but not described), idempotency, or interaction with other operations like 'collection_items'. The description is too minimal to fully guide an AI agent.

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

Parameters2/5

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

The input schema has 0% description coverage, and the tool description does not explain the meaning of 'collection_key' or 'item_key'. While the schema shows they are strings, the description adds no semantic value beyond what the structure already provides.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose3/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description 'Add an item to a collection' is essentially a restatement of the tool name. While it conveys the basic action, it does not add specificity or distinguish from related tools like 'add_item' or 'remove_item_from_collection'. The verb and resource are clear, but the description is minimal and tautological.

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 (e.g., 'add_item' possibly for standalone items). There is no mention of prerequisites, side effects, or scenarios where this tool is appropriate compared to siblings.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Install Server

Other Tools

Latest Blog Posts

MCP directory API

We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.

curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/nealcaren/mcp-zotero'

If you have feedback or need assistance with the MCP directory API, please join our Discord server