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pwndbg_fastbins

Print the contents of an arena's fastbins to inspect singly-linked LIFO free lists for small allocations. Shows each fastbin index with its chain.

Instructions

Print the contents of an arena's fastbins.

pwndbg command: fastbins Source: pwndbg/commands/ptmalloc2.py Category: GLibc ptmalloc2 Heap

Fastbins are singly-linked LIFO free lists for small allocations (up to 0x80 bytes on 64-bit). Shows each fastbin index with its chain.

Args: session_id: The UUID of the session. addr: Optional arena address. verbose: If True, show extended details.

See: https://pwndbg.re/2025.05.30/reference/pwndbg/commands/ptmalloc2/

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
session_idYes
addrNo
verboseNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the burden. It discloses the output format (shows each fastbin index with its chain) and implies a read-only operation via 'Print'. However, it does not mention prerequisites, failure modes, or any side effects. Basic transparency but not comprehensive.

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 concise and well-structured. It opens with a clear one-liner, includes source/category metadata, a brief explanation of fastbins, and a parameter list with short descriptions. Every sentence adds value, and a URL for further details is provided. No redundancy.

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?

Given the tool's complexity (heap debugging) and the presence of an output schema, the description adequately explains the tool's function and parameters. It does not cover prerequisites or error handling, but the core functionality is well-described. The output schema likely covers return value specifics, reducing the burden on the description.

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?

Despite 0% schema description coverage, the description adds meaningful context for each parameter: session_id is 'The UUID of the session', addr is 'Optional arena address', and verbose is 'If True, show extended details'. This compensates for the schema's lack of descriptions, though session_id's explanation is limited to its UUID nature.

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 clearly states 'Print the contents of an arena's fastbins' and explains fastbins as 'singly-linked LIFO free lists for small allocations'. This specific verb+resource, along with the explanation of its output (each fastbin index with its chain), distinguishes it from sibling tools like pwndbg_smallbins or pwndbg_largebins.

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 implies usage for inspecting fastbins in an arena but does not explicitly state when to use this tool over alternatives. However, the context of fastbin-specific explanation and the presence of many sibling tools for other bin types makes the intended use clear. Lacks explicit 'when-not' or alternative tool references.

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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