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Check Placeholders

check_placeholders

Verifies that a translated string retains all placeholders from the source string, ensuring no placeholders are missing or altered.

Instructions

Verify a translated string preserves all placeholders from the source (no LLM call).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
sourceYesThe source string
translationYesThe translated string to check

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv0.1.0

TDQS

A4/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It correctly indicates a verification action (implying read-only), but does not disclose return format, error behavior, or placeholder syntax expectations.

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, focused sentence with no redundant words. It conveys the essential function and a notable characteristic ('no LLM call') efficiently.

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?

For a simple verification tool, the description is mostly complete. It lacks an output schema and specifics about placeholder format, but the inputs are simple and the purpose is clear enough for an agent to use it correctly.

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?

Schema descriptions are minimal ('The source string', 'The translated string to check'), but the tool description clarifies that placeholders are the focus, giving meaningful context to both parameters. Coverage is complete.

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 the tool's purpose: verifying that a translated string preserves all placeholders from the source. The verb 'Verify' and specific object make the action unambiguous, and it is distinct from sibling tools.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

The description implies usage through '(no LLM call)' suggesting a lightweight deterministic check, but it does not explicitly state when to prefer this over siblings or provide exclusions. The context is minimal.

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