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update_library_metadata_by_ids_analyze

Idempotent

Triggers media analysis for specified Plex library item IDs to refresh metadata and generate thumbnails or artwork, with optional offsets for thumbnails and art.

Instructions

Analyze an item.

PUT /library/metadata/{ids}/analyze

Args: ids: Comma-separated list of IDs thumb_offset: Set the offset to be used for thumbnails art_offset: Set the offset to be used for artwork

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
idsYes
art_offsetNo
thumb_offsetNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv1.0.0

TDQS

C2.6/5.0
Behavior2/5

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

The description adds no behavioral context beyond what the annotations already supply. It does not disclose whether analysis is a background process, whether it mutates the item, what side effects occur, or what the output schema represents. Annotations indicate readOnly=false and idempotent=true, but the description fails to elaborate.

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 compact and to the point, listing the HTTP route and parameters without fluff. The opening sentence 'Analyze an item' is almost redundant with the tool name, but overall the structure is efficient and easily skimmable.

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?

While an output schema exists so return value description is not required, the description omits critical context: when to call this operation, what 'analyze' entails, whether it is long-running, and any side effects. For a mutating tool with readOnly=false, this leaves the agent under-informed about implications.

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?

Since the schema provides no descriptions (0% coverage), the description's one-line explanations for ids, thumb_offset, and art_offset are necessary and helpful. However, they are minimal: no units, ranges, or details about how offsets affect thumbnails/artwork. The meaning is clear enough for basic invocation but lacks depth.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose3/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description states a verb ('Analyze') and a resource ('an item'), which identifies the core action. However, 'an item' is vague and does not clarify that this operates on library metadata by IDs, nor does it explain what 'analyze' actually does or how it differs from sibling operations like refresh, index, or addetect.

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 the many sibling update_library_metadata_by_ids_* tools. No context about prerequisites, typical use cases, or distinctions is provided, leaving the agent to infer from the name alone.

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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