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pragprogrammer

YNAB MCP Server

create_category

Create a new category within a specific category group in your YNAB budget. Optionally set a monthly spending goal with a target date to track savings.

Instructions

Create a new category in a category group.

Args: plan_id: The plan ID (use list_plans to find available IDs) category_group_id: The category group ID to create the category in name: The name of the new category note: Optional note for the category goal_target: Optional goal target amount in dollars. If specified and no goal exists, a monthly 'Needed for Spending' goal will be created. goal_target_date: Optional goal target date in ISO format (e.g. '2026-12-01') exclude_fields: Optional list of field names to exclude from the response. If omitted, the model's default exclude list is used (see FIELDS.md). Pass [] to return all fields. Pass a custom list to override the default.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
nameYes
noteNo
plan_idYes
goal_targetNo
exclude_fieldsNo
goal_target_dateNo
category_group_idYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are present, so the description carries the full burden. It explains the creation behavior and optional goal behavior, but does not disclose error scenarios, side effects, or auth requirements. Adequate but could be more transparent.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is front-loaded with the main purpose, followed by a clear Args list. Each parameter description is concise and informative. Slightly verbose, but necessary given the lack of schema descriptions.

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 (7 params, 3 required) and no annotations, the description covers all necessary information: parameter usage, optional goal behavior, exclude_fields default, and a reference to another tool. It is complete for an agent to safely invoke the tool.

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?

Schema description coverage is 0%, yet the description provides detailed explanations for all 7 parameters, including how to obtain plan_id, the effect of goal_target (creates a monthly goal), and the behavior of exclude_fields. This adds significant meaning beyond the schema.

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 states 'Create a new category in a category group.' with a specific verb (create) and resource (category). It clearly distinguishes from sibling tools like create_category_group or update_category.

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

Usage Guidelines4/5

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

The description includes parameter guidance, such as using list_plans to find plan_id, and explains the effect of goal_target. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives or provide exclusions.

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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