xml_anythingFetch a sample XML response from httpbin.org (/xml). Use to verify XML content-type handling or as a placeholder in tests.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| body | Yes | Sample XML response | |
| status | Yes | HTTP status code | |
| content_type | Yes | Content-Type header |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Input schema / examplesAdded value: +[
+ {}
+]Output schema / (root)Previous value: -nullNew value: +{
+ "properties": {
+ "body": {
+ "description": "Sample XML response",
+ "type": "string"
+ },
+ "content_type": {
+ "description": "Content-Type header",
+ "type": "string"
+ },
+ "status": {
+ "description": "HTTP status code",
+ "type": "number"
+ }
+ },
+ "required": [
+ "status",
+ "content_type",
+ "body"
+ ],
+ "type": "object"
+}Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and non-destructive. Description adds the source (httpbin.org/xml) and use cases, providing useful behavioral context beyond annotations without contradiction.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
Two sentences, zero wasted words. Front-loaded with action and resource, then use cases. Highly efficient.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given no parameters, presence of output schema (covers return value), and annotations covering safety, the description fully covers purpose, usage, and behavior. Complete for this simple tool.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
No parameters; schema coverage is 100% (since none exist). Per guidelines, baseline is 4 for 0 parameters. Description adds nothing about parameters because there are none.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
Description clearly states it fetches a sample XML response from httpbin.org, with specific verb ('Fetch') and resource ('sample XML response'). Distinguishes from siblings like json_anything or html_anything by explicitly mentioning XML content-type handling.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
Explicitly says when to use: to verify XML content-type handling or as a placeholder in tests. No exclusions or alternatives mentioned, but given the tool's simplicity and that siblings cover similar cases for other formats, it provides adequate context.
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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