Skip to main content
Glama

describe_schema

One type's schema: its sections as written and its declared relations as data. Use to learn what an entity of the type may hold; for the whole vocabulary use describe_relations. Input: type. Returns url, the schema's own file, sections, and relations: owner, owns, references both ways, enums, joins and lists.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
typeYesA type name from list_types, such as skill

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
urlYes
nameYes
typeYes
modelYes
taglineYes
sectionsYes
relationsYes

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observed

TDQS

A4.4/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses the return structure (url, sections, relations with subfields) and implies a read-only, non-mutating operation. It does not mention side effects or error cases, but for a describe-type tool the intent is clear and the return details add useful context.

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 fluff. The first sentence states purpose, the second covers usage and return structure. Information is front-loaded and every sentence earns its place.

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 single-parameter tool with an output schema, the description covers the purpose, the usage context, and the return fields. It does not mention edge cases or potential errors, but these are minor given the tool's simplicity and the presence of an output schema.

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 a description and example for the single parameter 'type' (100% coverage). The description only restates 'Input: type' without adding new semantic meaning, so the baseline of 3 is appropriate.

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 states a specific verb+resource: it describes one type's schema, and explicitly contrasts with describe_relations for the whole vocabulary. It is immediately clear what the tool does and how it differs from a sibling.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

It explicitly says 'Use to learn what an entity of the type may hold' and directs to describe_relations for the whole vocabulary, giving clear when-to-use and an alternative. Nothing is left to inference.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

Try in Browser

Glama MCP Gateway

Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.

Resources