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copy_file

Copy files between locations in your file system to duplicate content or create backups. Specify source and destination paths to transfer files.

Instructions

Copies a file from one path to another

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
source_pathYesThe current path of the file to copy
destination_pathYesThe new path for the copied file
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the action ('Copies') but doesn't mention whether it overwrites existing files, handles errors (e.g., if source doesn't exist), requires specific permissions, or returns any output. For a mutation tool with zero annotation coverage, this is insufficient.

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, efficient sentence with zero waste—it directly states the tool's purpose without unnecessary words. It's appropriately sized and front-loaded, making it easy for an agent to parse quickly.

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 complexity of a file operation (mutation with potential side effects), no annotations, and no output schema, the description is incomplete. It doesn't cover behavioral aspects like overwriting, error handling, or return values, which are crucial for safe tool invocation in this context.

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 both parameters ('source_path' and 'destination_path') clearly documented in the schema. The description adds no additional meaning beyond what the schema provides, such as path format examples or constraints, so it meets the baseline for high schema coverage.

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 ('Copies') and resource ('a file'), specifying the operation as moving a file from one path to another. However, it doesn't distinguish this from the sibling 'move_file' tool, which performs a similar path-based file operation, so it doesn't fully differentiate from alternatives.

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?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'move_file' or 'write_file'. It lacks context about prerequisites (e.g., file existence, permissions) or exclusions, leaving the agent to infer usage from the tool name alone.

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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