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MCP SmallEdit

MCP SmallEdit

by MikeyBeez
OverviewSchemaSourceRelated ServersDiscussionsAdmin
TypeScript
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diff_preview

Preview file changes before applying them by showing a diff of modifications that would be made by sed, awk, or perl commands.

Instructions

Preview what changes would be made by showing a diff

Tool call template

Replace each placeholder with a value matching the input schema. Only required parameters are included; add optional parameters as needed.

{
  "id": 1,
  "jsonrpc": "2.0",
  "method": "tools/call",
  "params": {
    "arguments": {
      "file": "<file>",
      "command": "<command>"
    },
    "name": "diff_preview"
  }
}

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
fileYesFile to preview changes for
commandYesCommand that would make changes (e.g., "s/old/new/g")
toolNoWhich tool to use for the previewperl

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observed

TDQS

C2.9/5.0
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the tool shows a diff preview without making changes, which implies it's non-destructive, but doesn't clarify output format, error handling, or any constraints like file size limits or supported diff formats. This leaves significant gaps for a tool that interacts with files.

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 a single, clear sentence that efficiently conveys the core functionality without unnecessary words. It's front-loaded and every part earns its place, making it easy for an agent to parse quickly.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given the complexity of file manipulation and diff generation, the description is incomplete. With no annotations and no output schema, it fails to explain what the preview output looks like, potential side effects, or error conditions. This makes it inadequate for safe and effective use by an AI agent.

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

Parameters3/5

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

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema fully documents all parameters. The description adds no additional meaning beyond what's in the schema, such as examples of diff output or how 'command' interacts with 'tool'. This meets the baseline for high schema coverage.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose: 'Preview what changes would be made by showing a diff.' It specifies the verb ('preview') and resource ('changes'), but doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'quick_replace' or 'sed_edit' that might also involve changes or diffs.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention sibling tools or contexts where this preview is preferred over direct editing tools like 'sed_edit' or 'perl_edit', leaving the agent to guess based on the name alone.

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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