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bytebot_read_file

Read files from your filesystem and access their base64-encoded content for processing or analysis within ByteBot workflows.

Instructions

Read a file from the filesystem. Returns base64-encoded file content.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesAbsolute or relative path to the file to read
Behavior3/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It adds value by specifying that the return is 'base64-encoded file content', which is crucial for understanding output format. However, it lacks details on error handling (e.g., if the file doesn't exist), performance aspects like file size limits, or security considerations, leaving gaps in behavioral 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?

The description is extremely concise with two sentences that directly state the action and output format, with no wasted words. It's front-loaded and efficiently communicates the core functionality, making it easy to parse quickly.

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 low complexity (single parameter, no output schema, no annotations), the description is minimally adequate. It covers the basic action and output format but lacks context on error cases, performance limits, or integration with siblings, which could enhance completeness for a file read operation in this automation-focused server.

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?

Schema description coverage is 100%, with the parameter 'path' fully documented in the schema as 'Absolute or relative path to the file to read'. The description doesn't add any extra meaning beyond this, such as examples or constraints, so it meets the baseline for high schema coverage without compensating further.

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 the verb 'Read' and resource 'a file from the filesystem', making the purpose unambiguous. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'bytebot_write_file' or 'bytebot_screenshot', which also involve file operations or data retrieval, leaving room for improvement in sibling distinction.

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. For example, it doesn't mention when to choose this over 'bytebot_screenshot' for visual data or 'bytebot_write_file' for file manipulation, nor does it specify prerequisites like file existence or permissions, leaving usage context unclear.

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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