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load_dataset

Load a dataset from various file formats and get a structural overview including column types, classifications, and missing value counts. Use this to quickly understand an unfamiliar dataset before deeper analysis.

Instructions

Load a dataset and return a structural overview. Call this first when exploring an unfamiliar dataset — it gives you the shape, column types, classifications, and missing value counts you need to decide what to investigate next.

Returns: column names, dtypes, row count, per-column classifications (continuous, discrete, categorical, binary, temporal, high_cardinality), missing value counts and percentages per column.

Supports CSV, Parquet, Excel (.xlsx/.xls), JSON, NDJSON, Avro, and SQLite (.db/.sqlite). For SQLite files with multiple tables, pass the table name via table. If omitted and the database has exactly one table, it is loaded automatically.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
file_pathYes
tableNo
Behavior4/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It discloses supported file formats, return structure (column names, dtypes, classifications, missing values), and SQLite auto-load behavior. It implies a read-only operation but doesn't explicitly state 'read-only'. Still thorough given no annotations.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

Description is well-structured: starts with purpose, then output details, then supported formats and special behavior. At ~150 words, it is concise but not overly brief. Every sentence adds value, though some repetition could be trimmed.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Tool supports multiple formats and returns structural metadata. Description covers supported formats, column classifications, missing values, and SQLite table handling. It lacks details on file path resolution or permissions, but for an initial loading tool, it is sufficiently complete. No output schema, so description serves as return documentation.

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?

Input schema has 0% description coverage; description adds meaning by explaining file_path as the dataset path and table as optional SQLite table name with default behavior. This compensates well for the schema's lack of descriptions, though file_path could be more specific (e.g., local vs remote).

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?

Description clearly states 'Load a dataset and return a structural overview', with specific verb 'load' and resource 'dataset'. It distinguishes from sibling tools (e.g., generate_report, get_all_summaries) by explicitly saying 'Call this first when exploring an unfamiliar dataset'.

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?

Description explicitly advises 'Call this first when exploring an unfamiliar dataset', implying when to use. It also explains behavior for SQLite files when table is omitted. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or provide alternatives beyond the implicit ordering.

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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