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IBM

MCP Math Server

by IBM

ceil

Round numbers up to the nearest integer using this mathematical tool. Calculate the ceiling value for any numerical input to obtain the smallest integer greater than or equal to your number.

Instructions

Return the ceiling of a number (smallest integer greater than or equal to x). (Domain: arithmetic, Category: core)

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
xYes
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It describes the core behavior (returning the ceiling) but does not disclose additional traits such as error handling for non-numeric inputs, performance characteristics, or output format details. The description is accurate but lacks depth beyond the basic operation.

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 front-loaded with the core purpose in the first sentence, followed by contextual tags. It is highly concise with zero wasted words, making it easy to parse quickly.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Given the tool's low complexity (single parameter, no output schema, no annotations), the description is adequate but minimal. It covers the basic operation and context but lacks details on return values, error cases, or examples, which could enhance completeness for an AI agent.

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

Parameters4/5

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

The input schema has 1 parameter with 0% description coverage, but the description adds meaning by defining 'x' as 'a number' and explaining the ceiling operation. This compensates for the schema gap, though it does not specify constraints like integer vs. float or range limits.

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?

The description explicitly states the verb ('Return') and resource ('ceiling of a number'), with a precise mathematical definition ('smallest integer greater than or equal to x'). It clearly distinguishes from siblings like 'floor' or 'round_number' by specifying the ceiling operation.

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?

The description includes domain and category tags ('Domain: arithmetic, Category: core'), which imply usage in arithmetic contexts and as a fundamental operation. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'floor' or 'round_number', nor does it provide exclusions or prerequisites.

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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