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Zotero MCP Server

Zotero MCP Server

by yuogawaiic
OverviewSchemaSourceRelated ServersDiscussionsAdmin
Python
Local

read_pdf

Extract full text from PDF files in your Zotero library to access document content for research and reference purposes.

Instructions

Read a PDF file from the local file path and return its full text.

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": {
      "local_path": "<local_path>"
    },
    "name": "read_pdf"
  }
}

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
local_pathYes

Output Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv1.0.0

TDQS

A3.5/5.0
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden but only states the basic operation. It doesn't disclose behavioral traits such as error handling (e.g., invalid paths, corrupted files), performance characteristics (e.g., large file handling), or output format details beyond 'full text' (e.g., encoding, structure).

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, efficient sentence with zero waste—it directly states the action, source, and output. It is appropriately sized and front-loaded, making it easy to parse quickly.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's low complexity (1 parameter, no nested objects) and the presence of an output schema, the description is minimally adequate. However, with no annotations and incomplete behavioral disclosure, it lacks details on error cases or usage constraints that would enhance completeness.

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

Parameters4/5

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

The description adds meaning beyond the input schema by specifying that 'local_path' refers to a 'local file path' for a PDF file, which clarifies the parameter's purpose since schema coverage is 0%. However, it doesn't detail format requirements (e.g., absolute vs. relative paths, file extensions).

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 specific action ('Read a PDF file') and resource ('from the local file path'), distinguishing it from sibling tools like 'zotero_read_pdf' which likely interacts with Zotero library PDFs rather than local files. It provides a complete verb+resource+scope statement.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'zotero_read_pdf' or other PDF processing tools. It mentions the source ('local file path') but doesn't specify prerequisites, limitations, or comparative contexts with siblings.

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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