take_screenshot
Capture a screenshot of the current browser state and receive it as a base64-encoded string.
Instructions
Take a screenshot and return it as base64.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Capture a screenshot of the current browser state and receive it as a base64-encoded string.
Take a screenshot and return it as base64.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description only mentions the output format (base64) but omits crucial behavioral details such as whether it captures the full page or viewport, whether it waits for page stability, or if it modifies browser state. Since no annotations are provided, the description should compensate, but it falls short.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is extremely concise with one sentence, front-loading the action and return type. However, it sacrifices necessary detail for brevity, making it slightly under-specified.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given there are no parameters and no output schema, the description should provide sufficient behavioral context. It lacks information about the capture area, performance impact, and compatibility, making it incomplete for a screenshot tool in a browser automation context.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
There are no parameters, so the schema coverage is 100% by default. The description does not need to add parameter details, and the baseline for zero parameters is 4, which is appropriate.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the action 'take a screenshot' and indicates the return format as base64. It differentiates from sibling tools like 'compare_screenshot' which involves comparison, but does not specify the capture area (e.g., viewport vs full page), leaving some ambiguity.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. For example, it does not clarify when to use 'take_screenshot' instead of 'compare_screenshot' or other capture methods, nor does it mention prerequisites or 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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