base_tablePreview

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must cover behavioral traits. It mentions SQLAlchemy, bind parameters, and SQL rendering, but lacks details on side effects (likely read-only), error behavior, or permissions required. The description is adequate but not thorough.

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?

The description is concise with two clear paragraphs: behavioral overview and argument/return listing. The first sentence effectively communicates the core purpose. Minor improvements could include front-loading key usage notes.

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?

With no output schema and limited parameter descriptions, the description covers basic functionality but lacks details on return format (beyond 'formatted response'), error handling, or edge cases. It is adequate for a simple preview tool but not comprehensive.

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 coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It repeats parameter names with minimal additional context (e.g., 'table or view name') but does not explain that database_name is optional (default null) or its role in specifying the database. No examples or constraints are provided.

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 clearly states the tool returns a data sample and inferred structure from a database table or view, including rendered SQL. It distinguishes from siblings like base_tableDDL (DDL) and base_columnDescription (column info) by focusing on previewing sample data and structure.

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?

No explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance is provided. While the description implies it's for previewing table data, it does not differentiate from siblings like base_readQuery or advise on when to use this tool versus others.

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