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PDF.co MCP Server

PDF.co MCP Server

Official
by pdfdotco

read_pdf_forms_info

Extracts fillable PDF field information from a source PDF URL, helping you inspect available form fields before filling, converting, or processing the document.

Instructions

Extracts information about fillable PDF fields from an input PDF file.
Ref: https://developer.pdf.co/api/forms/info-reader.md

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYesURL to the source PDF file. Supports publicly accessible links including Google Drive, Dropbox, PDF.co Built-In Files Storage. Use 'upload_file' tool to upload local files.
api_keyNoPDF.co API key. If not provided, will use X_API_KEY environment variable. (Optional)
passwordNoPassword of PDF file. (Optional)
profilesNoExtra engine options for this endpoint as a JSON object encoded in a string. The options differ per endpoint; see https://developer.pdf.co/api/profiles. (Optional)
expirationNoLifetime of the output link in minutes; the output file is deleted afterwards. API default is 60; the maximum depends on the plan. (Optional)
httppasswordNoHTTP auth password if required to access source url. (Optional)
httpusernameNoHTTP auth user name if required to access source url. (Optional)

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed2 schema fields changedv0.0.11
    • addedInput schema / properties / expiration
      Added value: +{
      +  "anyOf": [
      +    {
      +      "type": "integer"
      +    },
      +    {
      +      "type": "null"
      +    }
      +  ],
      +  "default": null,
      +  "description": "Lifetime of the output link in minutes; the output file is deleted afterwards. API default is 60; the maximum depends on the plan. (Optional)",
      +  "title": "Expiration"
      +}
    • addedInput schema / properties / profiles
      Added value: +{
      +  "default": "",
      +  "description": "Extra engine options for this endpoint as a JSON object encoded in a string. The options differ per endpoint; see https://developer.pdf.co/api/profiles. (Optional)",
      +  "title": "Profiles",
      +  "type": "string"
      +}
  2. First observed

TDQS

B3.1/5.0
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full behavioral-disclosure burden. 'Extracts information' implies a read-only operation, but the description does not explicitly say the tool is non-destructive, describe the response shape, or explain how results are returned (for example, inline versus an output link).

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 very short and front-loaded: the first sentence states the action and target, and the second provides a documentation reference. There is no filler or repetition.

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

Completeness3/5

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

The tool has seven parameters, full schema coverage, and no output schema, so the description should clarify what is returned and how it is delivered. It says 'extracts information' but does not specify the return format or handling of the output, leaving a noticeable gap for an agent deciding whether the result meets its needs.

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 description coverage is 100%, so all seven parameters are already documented in the schema, including the URL, optional API key, password, profiles, expiration, and HTTP credentials. The description itself adds no parameter meaning beyond the schema, so the baseline of 3 applies.

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 states a specific verb and resource: it extracts information about fillable PDF fields from an input PDF file. This is clear, but it does not explicitly distinguish itself from closely related siblings such as pdf_info_reader, fill_forms, or create_fillable_forms.

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?

There is no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives, no prerequisites, and no exclusions. The description only states what it does and adds a reference URL, leaving the agent to infer usage from the name and context.

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