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file_read

Read text file contents safely with size and line limits to access file data securely within Claude Desktop.

Instructions

Read text file contents safely (max 100KB). Use maxLines to limit output.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesFile path to read
encodingNoEncoding (default: utf-8)
maxLinesNoMax lines to read
Behavior4/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It discloses key behavioral traits: the safety aspect ('safely'), file size limit ('max 100KB'), and output limitation via 'maxLines'. However, it does not cover error handling, permissions, or return format details, leaving some gaps.

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 and key constraints in the first sentence, followed by a brief usage tip. Every sentence earns its place with no wasted words, making it highly efficient and well-structured.

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 no annotations and no output schema, the description does well by covering safety, size limits, and a parameter tip. However, it lacks details on return values (e.g., format of read content) and error cases, which would enhance completeness for a read operation tool.

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 already documents all parameters. The description adds value by explaining the purpose of 'maxLines' ('to limit output'), but does not provide additional semantics beyond what the schema offers for 'path' or 'encoding'. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 verb ('Read') and resource ('text file contents'), specifies the safety constraint ('safely'), and distinguishes it from siblings by mentioning the file size limit ('max 100KB'). It directly addresses what the tool does without being tautological.

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 for reading text files with size and line limits, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'file_search' or 'file_tree'. It provides basic context but lacks explicit exclusions or sibling comparisons.

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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