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Query Layer

query_layer
Read-onlyIdempotent

Query an ArcGIS Feature Service / Map Service layer by its url (from search_datasets). SQL-like where, comma-separated out_fields, order_by, limit, offset. Returns attribute rows (and geometry). Use where="1=1" + out_fields="*" to sample.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYesFeature/Map Service layer url ending in /FeatureServer/<n> or /MapServer/<n>.
limitNoMax features (1-2000, default 50).
whereNoSQL where clause, e.g. "STATE = 'CA' AND YEAR >= 2020". Default "1=1".
offsetNoPagination offset.
order_byNoe.g. "POP DESC".
out_fieldsNoComma-separated field names, or "*" for all (default).

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed1 schema field changed
    • addedInput schema / examples
      Added value: +[
      +  {
      +    "limit": 50,
      +    "out_fields": "*",
      +    "url": "https://gis.berks.pa.us/arcgis/rest/services/PublicData/Parcels/FeatureServer/0",
      +    "where": "1=1"
      +  },
      +  {
      +    "limit": 100,
      +    "order_by": "ADDRESS ASC",
      +    "out_fields": "ADDRESS,OWNER,PARCELID",
      +    "url": "https://gis.berks.pa.us/arcgis/rest/services/PublicData/Addresses/FeatureServer/0",
      +    "where": "ZONING = 'Residential'"
      +  }
      +]
  2. First observed

TDQS

A4.2/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, openWorldHint, idempotentHint, and non-destructive behavior, covering safety. The description adds value by specifying the return format (attribute rows and geometry) and providing a usage pattern. It does not contradict annotations and offers context beyond them.

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 long, front-loaded with the core purpose, followed by a parameter summary and a practical tip. Every sentence contributes useful information with no redundancy.

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 6-parameter tool with no output schema, the description covers the essential context: source of the URL (search_datasets), return type (rows and geometry), and a sampling pattern. It does not elaborate on pagination behavior or error handling, but the schema covers offsets and limits, so it is sufficiently complete.

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 has 100% coverage with detailed descriptions for all six parameters. The description merely summarizes the parameters (SQL-like where, comma-separated out_fields, etc.) without adding new syntactic or semantic details. This matches the baseline for well-documented schemas.

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 tool queries an ArcGIS Feature Service / Map Service layer by URL, using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like search_datasets (finds datasets) and layer_info (presumably metadata) by focusing on data retrieval.

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 clear usage context: the URL should come from search_datasets, and it offers a practical sampling tip (where="1=1" + out_fields="*"). However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use this tool, such as layer_info for metadata, so it's slightly below a perfect score.

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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