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Read source files

websiteSourceCode_files_read
Read-onlyIdempotent

Reads up to 50 files by name from head, published, or an explicit version. A single-file read supports line and character ranges; continue truncated reads with nextStartCharacter and the resolved version.

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": {
      "websiteId": "<websiteId>",
      "names": "<names>"
    },
    "name": "websiteSourceCode_files_read"
  }
}

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
namesYesFile names to read (up to 50). Singleton files are addressed by their type name, for example `global_css`.
targetNoVersion alias to read: `head` (default) or `published`.
endLineNoLast line to return (1-based, inclusive). Only valid when reading a single file.
versionNoExplicit source version. Takes precedence over `target`.
startLineNoFirst line to return (1-based, inclusive). Only valid when reading a single file.
websiteIdYes
endCharacterNoLast character to return from the selected line range (1-based, inclusive). Only valid when reading a single file.
startCharacterNoFirst character to return from the selected line range (1-based, inclusive). Only valid when reading a single file.

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observed

TDQS

A3.9/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

With annotations already declaring a safe, idempotent read, the description adds genuinely useful behavior: truncation handling via `nextStartCharacter` and the resolved `version`, plus the constraint that line/character ranges only apply to single-file reads. It stops short of describing error conditions (e.g., missing files, mixed multi-file/range requests).

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?

Two compact sentences, front-loaded with the core operation and followed by the single-file/continuation caveat. No 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 read-only tool with annotations, high schema coverage, and no output schema, this is largely sufficient: it covers sources, batching, ranges, and continuation. Minor gaps remain around what is returned for partial failures and how multi-file requests interact with ranges beyond the single-file note.

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?

Schema coverage is 88%, so most parameters are already documented. The description still adds meaning by explaining the multi-file vs. single-file distinction and tying `version` to continuation after truncation, which the schema does not fully convey as a workflow.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description gives a specific verb and resource ('Reads up to 50 files by name') and pins the source scope to head, published, or an explicit version. It does not name a sibling, but 'by name' implicitly separates it from files_list and files_search.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Usage is implied through the source options (head/published/version) and the note that ranges apply to single-file reads. However, there is no explicit guidance on when to choose this tool over files_list, files_search, or files_diff, so the agent must infer the selection.

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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