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get_cells

Fetch a range of notebook cells in JSON format. Define the cell range by start and end indices, with an option to include code outputs.

Instructions

Gets a range of cells as JSON from the notebook.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
cellIndexStartNoThe starting index for the cell range (inclusive). If not provided, this defaults to 0.
cellIndexEndNoThe end index for the cell range (inclusive). This must be greater than or equal to cellIndexStart. If not provided, this defaults to the last available cell index.
includeOutputsNoWhether to include the code cell execution outputs in the response. If not provided, this defaults to false.
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden, but it only says 'gets cells as JSON' without disclosing any behavioral traits such as read-only nature, permission requirements, performance implications, or how the range is interpreted (e.g., inclusive/exclusive).

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 a single concise sentence of 11 words that captures the essential purpose without redundancy. Every word earns its place.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given the tool has 3 optional parameters and no output schema, the description is too brief. It fails to describe the return structure, error scenarios, or how the parameters interact, leaving the agent with insufficient context for reliable invocation.

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?

Input schema has 100% coverage with detailed descriptions for all three parameters (cellIndexStart, cellIndexEnd, includeOutputs). The description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, so a 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 clearly states the verb 'Gets', the resource 'range of cells', and the output format 'JSON'. It effectively distinguishes from sibling tools like 'get_cell' (single cell) and 'find_cells' (search).

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 alternatives like 'get_cell', 'find_cells', or 'read_cell_outputs'. The description lacks context for appropriate usage scenarios.

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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