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get_variable_context

Read-only

Search variable definitions by scope and keyword. Read-only. Returns { variables, total, returned, truncated } — compare returned against total to detect a cut-off result set and re-call with a higher limit. Values are withheld unless includeValues is true; variables marked secret stay redacted either way. Use the returned ids in {{var|<id>}} references.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
limitNoMaximum variables to return. Defaults to 30; values above 50 are clamped to 50.
queryNoCase-insensitive substring filter matched against the variable name, full path, description, type, and scope. Omit to list without filtering.
scopeNoRestrict to one variable scope. Defaults to "all".
applicationIdNoApplication (workspace) id. Optional: an application-scoped key (app_...) defaults to its own application, but a personal key (usr_...) has no default and omitting it fails with MCP_APPLICATION_REQUIRED. Call list_applications to get the id.
includeValuesNoSet true to include stored values, each previewed to 500 characters. Defaults to false — leave it off unless you need the data, since values may hold personal data. Secret variables remain redacted regardless.

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed5 schema fields changed
    • addedInput schema / properties / applicationId / description
      Added value: +"Application (workspace) id. Optional: an application-scoped key (app_...) defaults to its own application, but a personal key (usr_...) has no default and omitting it fails with MCP_APPLICATION_REQUIRED. Call list_applications to get the id."
    • addedInput schema / properties / includeValues / description
      Added value: +"Set true to include stored values, each previewed to 500 characters. Defaults to false — leave it off unless you need the data, since values may hold personal data. Secret variables remain redacted regardless."
    • addedInput schema / properties / limit / description
      Added value: +"Maximum variables to return. Defaults to 30; values above 50 are clamped to 50."
    • addedInput schema / properties / query / description
      Added value: +"Case-insensitive substring filter matched against the variable name, full path, description, type, and scope. Omit to list without filtering."
    • addedInput schema / properties / scope / description
      Added value: +"Restrict to one variable scope. Defaults to \"all\"."
  2. First observed

TDQS

A4.6/5.0
Behavior5/5

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

Description adds detailed behavior beyond annotations: pagination detection, conditional value inclusion, secret redaction, and default for includeValues. Annotations only state readOnlyHint=true, so this is essential.

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?

Four sentences, each serving a distinct purpose: introduction, read-only declaration, return shape and pagination, value behavior and usage. No redundancy, well front-loaded.

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?

No output schema, so description covers return shape and pagination logic. Explains secret handling and default for includeValues. Could mention id format more, but agent can infer from usage instruction. Adequate for correct tool use.

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 100%, so baseline 3. Description adds value for some parameters: mentions default/clamping for limit, suggests calling list_applications for applicationId, explains 500-char preview for includeValues. Not all parameters get extra context, but enough to improve understanding.

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?

Clear verb 'search' and resource 'variable definitions' with explicit scope (by scope and keyword). Distinguishes from sibling tools like get_flow_context and get_application_context by focusing on variables.

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?

Provides guidance on interpreting pagination (compare returned vs total), handling value redaction, and using ids in references. Lacks explicit when-not-to-use or alternative tools, but context is sufficient for correct invocation.

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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