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validate_formula

Read-onlyIdempotent

Validate an Airtable formula expression and preview its result type before saving. Catch syntax errors early to prevent field creation failures.

Instructions

Validate a formula expression before creating or updating a formula field. Returns whether the formula is valid and what result type it produces (text, number, etc). Use this before create/update to catch errors early.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
appIdYesThe Airtable base/application ID
tableIdYesThe table ID where the formula will be used
formulaTextYesThe formula expression to validate
debugNoWhen true, include raw Airtable response in output for diagnostics
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, idempotentHint=true. The description adds that it returns validity and result type, but doesn't describe error behavior or rate limits, which is acceptable given annotations cover safety.

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?

Two sentences, front-loaded with the verb and key information. Every sentence adds value without repetition or unnecessary detail.

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

Completeness5/5

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

For a simple validation tool with annotations and no output schema, the description is complete: it explains purpose, usage guidance, and return value (validity and result type). No gaps.

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 coverage is 100%, so baseline 3. The description doesn't add meaning beyond the schema; it merely refers to 'formula expression' which matches the formulaText parameter already described in the schema.

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?

Clearly describes the tool's function ('Validate a formula expression') and its context ('before creating or updating a formula field'). Explicitly differentiates from sibling tools like create_formula_field by focusing on validation.

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

Usage Guidelines4/5

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

Explicitly states when to use: 'Use this before create/update to catch errors early.' Does not explicitly mention when not to use, but the purpose is clear and distinct from siblings.

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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