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p10q
by p10q

add_elliptical_mask

Apply an elliptical mask to a specific layer in Adobe After Effects to define visible areas, using center coordinates and radius dimensions for precise control.

Instructions

Add an elliptical mask to a layer

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
compIdYesID of the composition
layerIndexYesIndex of the layer
nameNoName for the maskEllipse Mask
centerYesCenter position [x, y]
radiusYesRadius [width, height]
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure but offers minimal information. It implies a write operation ('Add'), but doesn't specify permissions needed, whether the mask is editable after creation, or what happens on success/failure. For a mutation tool with zero annotation coverage, this is a significant gap in transparency.

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?

The description is a single, efficient sentence with zero waste. It's front-loaded with the core action and resource, making it easy to parse quickly. Every word earns its place without redundancy or unnecessary elaboration.

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?

For a mutation tool with no annotations and no output schema, the description is incomplete. It doesn't address behavioral aspects like error conditions, return values, or side effects. Given the complexity of adding graphical elements in a creative tool context, more guidance on usage and outcomes is warranted.

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?

The input schema has 100% description coverage, with clear parameter definitions (e.g., 'compId' as composition ID, 'center' as position). The description adds no additional parameter semantics beyond what the schema provides, such as explaining coordinate systems or radius units. Baseline 3 is appropriate since the schema does the heavy lifting.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states the action ('Add') and resource ('elliptical mask to a layer'), making the purpose immediately understandable. It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'add_rectangular_mask' by specifying the elliptical shape. However, it doesn't explicitly contrast with the generic 'add_mask' tool, which slightly reduces specificity.

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 like 'add_rectangular_mask' or 'add_mask'. The description lacks context about prerequisites, such as needing an existing composition and layer, or when elliptical versus rectangular masks are appropriate. This leaves the agent without usage direction.

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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