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Search by Frontmatter

search_by_frontmatter
Read-onlyIdempotent

Search for notes in an Obsidian vault by YAML frontmatter property and value. Case-insensitive matching works on array values. Filter by metadata like status, type, or tags. Returns file paths and frontmatter.

Instructions

Find notes whose YAML frontmatter contains a given property/value pair. Comparison is case-insensitive; for array-valued properties, a match is declared if any element matches. Returns matching note paths with their full frontmatter. Use to filter notes by metadata like status, type, or tags stored in frontmatter.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
propertyYesFrontmatter key to look up (e.g., 'status', 'type', 'author')
valueYesValue to match against the property (case-insensitive; matches any array element)
folderNoRestrict search to this folder relative to the vault root (omit to search entire vault)
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint=true and idempotentHint=true. Description adds useful details: case-insensitive comparison, array matching behavior, and return of matching paths with full frontmatter. 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.

Conciseness5/5

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

Two sentences: first defines core purpose and key behavior, second suggests use case. Every word is necessary and front-loaded with critical info.

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 read-only nature, full annotation coverage, and no output schema needed, the description provides all necessary context: tool action, matching details, and typical usage scenario.

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% with clear parameter descriptions. Description reinforces the matching behavior and use case but does not add significant new 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?

Verb 'find' with resource 'notes by frontmatter property/value pair' is specific. Clearly distinguishes from sibling tools like search_by_tag and search_notes by focusing on frontmatter key-value metadata filtering.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

Description implies usage for filtering by metadata (status, type, tags) but does not explicitly state when to use this tool over alternatives (e.g., search_by_tag) or when not to use it.

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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