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pragprogrammer

YNAB MCP Server

get_category

Get detailed information for a specific budget category, including current month amounts, using the category and plan IDs.

Instructions

Get a single category. Amounts are specific to the current plan month (UTC).

Args: category_id: The category ID plan_id: The plan ID (use list_plans to find available IDs) 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
plan_idYes
category_idYes
exclude_fieldsNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

With no annotations, the description effectively discloses behavior: it returns a single category with amounts for the current month, and explains the exclude_fields logic. No contradictions.

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?

Concise and front-loaded with purpose. Arg list is clear. Could be slightly tighter, but every sentence adds value.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Given the presence of an output schema, the description sufficiently covers inputs and behavior. It explains month specificity and excludes fields. Missing explicit note that it is read-only, but not critical.

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%, but the description fully explains each parameter: category_id, plan_id (with hint to use list_plans), and exclude_fields with detailed options. Compensates entirely for missing schema descriptions.

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 'Get a single category' and distinguishes from sibling tools like list_categories and get_category_for_month by noting that amounts are specific to the current plan month (UTC).

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?

Provides guidance for exclude_fields parameter with three clear options, including a reference to FIELDS.md. However, it does not explicitly compare to siblings like get_category_for_month or state when not to use this tool.

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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