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duplicate_to_arrangement

Destructive

Copy a Session-view clip to the Arrangement timeline at a specified beat position. Overwrites existing content on the same track, enabling efficient arrangement building.

Instructions

Copy a Session-view clip into the Arrangement timeline.

OVERWRITES whatever already occupies the destination range on that track (like recording over tape) - this is also the supported way to REPLACE a section. Uses Live's track.duplicate_clip_to_arrangement() API (Live 11/12). The clip is placed at destination_time beats from the start of the arrangement on the same track it lives in.

Typical workflow:

  1. create_clip / add_notes_to_clip to build a Session clip

  2. Call duplicate_to_arrangement once per bar/section you need

  3. Call switch_to_arrangement_view to confirm the result in Live

Parameters:

  • track_index: Index of the track that owns the Session clip

  • clip_index: Index of the clip slot in that track (Session view)

  • destination_time: Beat position in the arrangement to place the clip (e.g. 0.0 = start, 8.0 = bar 3 in 4/4)

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
clip_indexYes
track_indexYes
destination_timeYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior5/5

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

The description explicitly states 'OVERWRITES whatever already occupies the destination range... like recording over tape - this is also the supported way to REPLACE a section,' adding significant behavioral context beyond the destructiveHint annotation. It also mentions the underlying API and Live version compatibility.

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 well-structured with a clear first sentence, behavioral notes, workflow, and parameter list. Every sentence adds value, and the length is appropriate for the tool's complexity.

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 the presence of an output schema, the description need not explain return values. It covers purpose, behavior, parameters, and typical usage, making it complete for an AI agent to correctly select and invoke the tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Despite the input schema having no descriptions (0% coverage), the description explains each parameter: track_index (track owning clip), clip_index (clip slot in Session), destination_time (beat position in arrangement). This fully compensates for the schema gap.

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 'Copy a Session-view clip into the Arrangement timeline,' specifying the exact action (copy/duplicate) and resource (Session clip to Arrangement). It distinguishes from siblings like 'duplicate_clip_to' and 'delete_arrangement_clip' by focusing on the specific Session-to-Arrangement operation.

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 provides a typical workflow (create clip, duplicate_to_arrangement, switch_to_arrangement_view) and explains that it overwrites content, implying use for placement/replacement. It does not explicitly state when not to use it, but the context is clear given the workflow and sibling operations.

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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