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take_screenshot

Capture screenshots from Android devices or emulators, with optional UI element annotations for visual automation and testing purposes.

Instructions

Take a screenshot for the specified device/emulator. If no device_id is provided, uses the default device. Set annotate_elements=False to take a plain screenshot without UI element annotations.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
annotate_elementsNo
device_idNo
nameNo
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden for behavioral disclosure. It mentions the default device behavior and annotation option, but doesn't describe what the tool actually returns (screenshot format, location, or how to access it), whether it requires specific permissions, or potential side effects. This is inadequate for a tool with no annotation coverage.

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 efficiently structured in two sentences with zero wasted words. The first sentence establishes the core functionality, and the second provides important parameter guidance. Every sentence earns its place.

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 no annotations, no output schema, and incomplete parameter documentation (missing 'name' parameter), the description is insufficient. For a screenshot tool that presumably returns visual data, the lack of information about return values or how to access the screenshot is a significant gap.

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

Parameters4/5

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

With 0% schema description coverage, the description compensates well by explaining the purpose of 'device_id' (default device behavior) and 'annotate_elements' (UI element annotations). However, it doesn't mention the 'name' parameter at all, leaving one of three parameters completely undocumented.

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 ('Take a screenshot') and resource ('specified device/emulator'), making the purpose immediately understandable. However, it doesn't explicitly distinguish this tool from potential sibling tools like 'record_video' or 'get_ui_elements_info' beyond mentioning annotation capabilities.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides some usage context by explaining what happens when no device_id is provided (uses default device) and when to set annotate_elements=False. However, it doesn't explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'record_video' for video capture or 'get_ui_elements_info' for UI element information.

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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