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download_notebook

Download the current Colab notebook cells to a local .ipynb file.

Instructions

Alias for export_notebook. Downloads the current Colab notebook cells to a local .ipynb file on the machine running Codex/MCP.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYes
includeOutputsNo
Behavior3/5

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

The description discloses the core behavior: downloading current notebook cells to a local file. However, it lacks side-effect information (e.g., whether it overwrites existing files) and prerequisites. It does not contradict the absent annotations.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single sentence that conveys the essential purpose efficiently. It could be slightly improved by structuring the alias note separately, but it is concise overall.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness3/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the tool's simplicity, the description covers the main action but omits details about return values (no output schema), file overwriting behavior, and the purpose of 'includeOutputs'. This leaves gaps for an agent unfamiliar with the tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters2/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The input schema has 0% description coverage. The description only implies the path parameter by mentioning 'local .ipynb file' but does not explain the 'includeOutputs' parameter or provide additional semantics beyond the schema's types and defaults.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states it is an alias for export_notebook and specifies that it downloads the current Colab notebook cells to a local .ipynb file. However, it does not differentiate this tool from its alias, export_notebook, which is a sibling tool.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus its alias export_notebook or other download tools like download_file. The description simply states it is an alias, leaving the agent with no decision criteria.

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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