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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://services.arcgis.com/...FeatureServer/0",
      +    "where": "1=1"
      +  },
      +  {
      +    "limit": 100,
      +    "order_by": "ACREAGE DESC",
      +    "out_fields": "PARCEL_ID,OWNER,ACREAGE",
      +    "url": "https://services.arcgis.com/...FeatureServer/2",
      +    "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 cover read-only/idempotent behavior. The description adds value by disclosing that the tool returns attribute rows and geometry, and by clarifying the SQL-like query semantics. No contradictions with annotations.

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 sentences with no wasted words. The first sentence immediately states the tool's purpose and source, and the second provides a useful sampling example. Perfectly front-loaded and compact.

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?

Given no output schema, the description adequately explains return values (attribute rows and geometry) and provides enough context to select and invoke the tool. It does not cover error cases or full result formatting, but for a read-only query tool with rich schema annotations, this is sufficient.

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 already provides 100% coverage for all parameters. The description summarizes the parameter list (where, out_fields, order_by, limit, offset) but adds little beyond the schema. It does add context about SQL-like syntax and returning geometry, keeping it at 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 has a specific verb ('Query'), a clear resource ('ArcGIS Feature Service / Map Service layer'), and contextual linkage ('by its url (from search_datasets)'). This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like search_datasets or layer_info.

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 clearly indicates when to use the tool (after search_datasets) and provides practical guidance (e.g., using where="1=1" + out_fields="*" to sample). It does not explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions, but the usage context is clear.

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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