upload_file

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

No annotations are provided, so the description bears full burden. It mentions the processing pipeline (parse, chunk, embed) and mutual exclusivity of content types, but does not disclose failure modes, idempotency, permissions, or response format. This is adequate but not rich.

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?

Two sentences with no waste. The purpose is front-loaded, and essential usage hint is included. Every sentence adds value.

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 6 parameters (1 required), schema covers all, and no output schema, the description is fairly complete. It explains the overall goal and key constraint. However, it omits details on return value or confirmation. Still, it is adequate for an agent to understand and use the tool.

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 100%, so baseline is 3. The description reiterates the mutual exclusivity of content and textContent already in schema descriptions, adding minimal extra meaning. No new parameter semantics beyond the schema.

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 action ('Upload a file') and the resource, and describes the processing pipeline ('parsed, chunked, embedded, and made searchable'). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like bulk_upload (multiple files) and delete_file (deletion).

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 gives a parameter usage guideline ('Provide either content or textContent, not both') but lacks explicit guidance on when to use this tool over siblings like bulk_upload or search_knowledge. No when-not-to-use or alternative recommendations are provided.

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