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Export Zotero items

zotero_export
Read-only

Export Zotero items in standard bibliographic formats like BibTeX, RIS, or CSL JSON, with optional filtering by item keys, collection, or item type.

Instructions

Export items in a bibliographic format and return the raw text. Choose format (bibtex, biblatex, better-biblatex, ris, csljson, csv, mods, tei, coins, rdf_*, refer, wikipedia, bookmarks). biblatex is Zotero's STOCK translator via the cloud Web API; BBT-specific options (citation-key generation, sentence-case, biblatexExtendedNameFormat, unicode→LaTeX) are NOT available there. better-biblatex uses the local desktop Better BibTeX plugin (your configured BBT export options apply) and is only available when desktop Zotero + BBT are running; it degrades to built-in biblatex otherwise. Narrow with item_keys, collection_key, q, or item_type. A limit (default 50) is always applied. For styled human bibliographies use the bibliography tools.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
qNo
limitNo
formatYes
item_keysNo
item_typeNo
library_idNo
library_typeNo
collection_keyNo
Behavior5/5

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

Discloses that export is read-only (matches readOnlyHint) and returns raw text. Explains better-biblatex availability and degradation, and that a limit is always applied. No annotation contradiction.

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?

Front-loaded with main purpose, then details format options, narrowing, and limit. Each sentence provides essential information without redundancy.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Given the complexity (8 params, multiple enums, no output schema), the description is complete: explains output, format behaviors, narrowing, limit, and points to alternative tools.

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

Parameters5/5

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

Despite 0% schema description coverage, the description adds meaning for all parameters: explains format options in detail, distinguishes better-biblatex, and explains how to use item_keys, collection_key, q, item_type, and limit.

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 'Export', the resource 'Zotero items', and the output 'raw text'. It distinguishes from sibling tools like bibliography tools, which are for styled bibliographies.

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?

Explicitly says when to use (for raw text) and when not to (for styled bibliographies, use bibliography tools). Provides guidance on choosing between better-biblatex and biblatex, and explains narrowing options.

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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