Create a copy of an existing master spread with a new name for use in a specified InDesign document.
Duplicate an existing master spread
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| name | Yes | ||
| newName | Yes | ||
| document_id | No | Which open document to act on: a name (see document_listOpen) or a 0-based index. Defaults to the front document. |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.6.1Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. 'Duplicate' implies a write operation that creates a copy, but it does not disclose whether the original is preserved, what happens if newName collides, permission requirements, or any mutation side effects.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single front-loaded sentence with no wasted words. However, it is under-specified for a mutation tool with three parameters and no annotations, so brevity comes at the cost of useful detail.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given a mutation tool with no annotations, no output schema, and only 33% parameter description coverage, the description is too thin. It does not provide the behavioral, parameter, or usage context an agent would need to invoke it confidently.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
Schema description coverage is 33%. The required parameters name and newName have no descriptions in the schema, and the description adds no meaning for any parameter. Only document_id is documented in the schema, so the description fails to compensate for the coverage gap.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description states a specific verb ('Duplicate') and resource ('master spread'), which clearly separates it from master_create, master_delete, and master_list. It does not explicitly reference a sibling alternative, but the resource scope is unambiguous.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
There is no guidance on when to use this tool versus master_create, master_apply, or even page_duplicate. The implied use case is copying an existing master spread, but no exclusions or alternatives are given.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.