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thostetler

NASA SciX MCP Server

by thostetler

export

Read-only

Export SciX bibliographic citations into 25+ formats including BibTeX, AASTeX, and EndNote. Supports custom formatting templates for tailored output.

Instructions

Export citations in 25+ academic formats (BibTeX, AASTeX, EndNote, IEEE, MNRAS, etc.) with support for custom formatting templates.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
bibcodesYesList of SciX bibcodes to export (1-2000)
formatYesExport format
custom_formatNoCustom format string using field specifiers (required when format is custom)
sortNoSort order for bibcodes (e.g., "date desc", "first_author asc")
maxauthorNoMaximum number of authors to display (default: 200)
authorcutoffNoNumber of authors before using "et al."
journalformatNoJournal name format: 1 (AASTeX macros), 2 (abbreviations), 3 (full names)
keyformatNoBibTeX key format template (e.g., "%1H%Y" for FirstAuthorYear)
Behavior3/5

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

The description does not contradict annotations (readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false). It adds minimal behavioral context beyond the annotations, simply stating 'export citations', which implies a read operation. No additional behavioral traits are disclosed.

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?

The description is a single, well-structured sentence that front-loads the key information (export, many formats) and includes specific examples. Every word serves a purpose.

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 the lack of an output schema and the tool's complexity (8 parameters, many formats), the description is reasonably complete. It covers the primary purpose and mentions custom templates, though it could elaborate on the output format.

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 description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents all parameters adequately. The description mentions 'support for custom formatting templates', which adds a bit of context for the custom_format parameter, but overall adds little extra 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?

The description clearly states that the tool exports citations in over 25 academic formats, listing specific examples like BibTeX and IEEE. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools (e.g., get_citations, search) by focusing on format conversion.

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?

The description does not provide any guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites, exclusions, or comparisons to sibling tools like get_citations or search.

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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