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pvliesdonk

scholar-mcp

by pvliesdonk

get_references

Read-only

Retrieve the papers cited by a given paper, enabling backward reference lookup for tracing prior art and sources.

Instructions

Fetch papers referenced by the given paper (backward references).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
limitNoMax results.
fieldsNoField set preset for returned paper records.compact
offsetNoPagination offset.
identifierYesPaper identifier (DOI, S2 ID, ARXIV:, etc.).

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so safety is covered. Description adds the directional context (backward references) and clarifies it's a listing of references for a paper, but doesn't add other behavioral details like pagination behavior or error handling.

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?

A single clear sentence that conveys the core function without redundancy.

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 output schema exists and annotations cover safety, the description is sufficient for a simple fetch tool. It correctly specifies the input identifier and the direction of the relationship.

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?

All four parameters are fully described in the schema (100% coverage), so the description adds no extra parameter semantics. Baseline 3 applies.

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?

Uses specific verb 'Fetch' and resource 'papers referenced by the given paper', explicitly noting backward references, distinguishing it from get_citations (likely forward references).

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?

Implies backward-reference usage via 'backward references' but does not explicitly name alternative tools or when not to use. The sibling context suggests get_citations for forward references, but this is not stated.

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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