@xbghc/zotero-mcp

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Create Collection

create_collection

Create a new collection folder in Zotero to organize references hierarchically. Optionally specify a parent collection to create a sub-collection.

Instructions

Create a new collection (folder) in the Zotero library. Collections help organize items into hierarchical folders. Use parentCollection to create a sub-collection.

Tool call template

Replace each placeholder with a value matching the input schema. Only required parameters are included; add optional parameters as needed.

{
  "id": 1,
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "tools/call",
  "params": {
    "arguments": {
      "name": "<name>"
    },
    "name": "create_collection"
  }
}

Input Schema

Name	Required	Description	Default
`name`	Yes	Name of the new collection
`parentCollection`	No	Parent collection key to create as sub-collection

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

First observedv1.0.3Aug 9, 2026

TDQS

A3.8/5.0

Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description must carry the behavioral transparency burden. While it states the create action, it does not disclose permission requirements, duplicate name handling, or what the tool returns. The added context about hierarchical folders is informational, not behavioral.

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 three sentences, front-loaded with the main action, and every sentence adds relevant context or parameter guidance. There is no redundancy or filler.

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?

For a simple two-parameter create operation with no output schema, the description is largely complete: it explains what the tool does, why collections are useful, and how to create sub-collections. It omits return behavior, but that is not required given the absence of an output schema.

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?

The input schema provides full descriptions for both parameters (100% coverage). The description's 'Use parentCollection to create a sub-collection' essentially restates the schema's parameter description without adding new syntax, format, or edge-case details, so it adds little beyond the baseline.

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 action ('Create') and resource ('a new collection (folder) in the Zotero library'), and the context of organizing items hierarchically distinguishes it from sibling tools like list_collections, update_collection, or delete_collection.

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 clear context on when to use this tool (to create a collection) and explicitly guides using parentCollection for sub-collections. It does not explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions, but the purpose is unambiguous.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.