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Add Canvas Node

add_canvas_node

Add a text, file, link, or group node to an Obsidian canvas and get its UUID for connecting edges.

Instructions

Add a new node to an Obsidian canvas and persist the updated file. Supports four node types: 'text' (markdown block), 'file' (embedded vault note reference), 'link' (external URL), and 'group' (labeled container). Returns the generated node UUID, needed to connect nodes via add_canvas_edge.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
canvasPathYesRelative path from vault root to the target .canvas file
typeYesNode kind: 'text' = markdown block, 'file' = vault note reference, 'link' = external URL, 'group' = labeled container
contentYesInterpretation depends on type: text body for 'text', relative note path for 'file', URL for 'link', display label for 'group'
xNoX coordinate on the canvas (default: 0)
yNoY coordinate on the canvas (default: 0)
widthNoNode width in pixels (default: 250)
heightNoNode height in pixels (default: 60)
colorNoColor: '1'-'6' for Obsidian's preset palette (red/orange/yellow/green/cyan/purple), or a hex code like '#ff5555'
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations indicate this is not read-only or destructive. The description adds that it persists the updated file and returns a UUID, going beyond the annotations. It does not contradict annotations and provides useful behavioral context.

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?

Four sentences with no wasted words: clear statement of action, type enumeration, return value, and connection to sibling tool. Front-loaded with the key action.

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 8 parameters and no output schema, the description covers the main purpose, node types, and output. It lacks details on default behaviors (like x,y defaults) but schema covers those. Adequate for a moderately complex tool.

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?

Schema coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. The description adds minimal extra parameter meaning (repeated details about types). It does not explain advanced parameter interactions but is acceptable given full schema documentation.

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 the tool adds a node to an Obsidian canvas, specifies four node types, and mentions the return value (UUID) needed for connecting edges. It distinguishes itself from the sibling tool add_canvas_edge.

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 implies usage by noting the UUID is needed for add_canvas_edge, providing context for when this tool is used (before adding edges). It does not explicitly list when not to use it, but the sibling list and description provide adequate context.

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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