create_virtual_dataset

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It reveals the key behavior that confirm controls write operations and that the default is preview, which is important safety information. However, it doesn't disclose permissions, return values, or what exactly happens during preview, leaving gaps for a creation tool.

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

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

One sentence, front-loaded with the action, and every word earns its place. The semicolon separates the core function from the critical write condition, making it highly scannable.

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

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

Given six parameters, no annotations, no output schema, and no mention of prerequisites or return behavior, the description is too sparse. It gives the essential preview/write concept but omits what a preview returns, how required fields interact, and any permissions or side effects, leaving the agent under-informed for a tool with this complexity.

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

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

Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It adds meaning to the 'confirm' parameter by explaining it gates writes, and implies 'sql' is central via 'SQL-backed.' Other parameters (database_id, table_name, owners, schema) are not addressed, so compensation is partial.

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

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

The description states a specific verb ('Preview or create') and resource ('SQL-backed virtual dataset'), making the tool's function clear. It distinguishes itself from siblings like create_chart or create_dashboard by focusing on virtual datasets, though it doesn't explicitly name alternatives.

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

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

The description provides clear usage context by explaining that 'confirm=true is required to write,' which tells the agent when a write occurs versus a preview. It doesn't mention when to prefer this over execute_sql or create_saved_query, but the core preview/write distinction is useful guidance.

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