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list-mail-folder-messages-delta

list-mail-folder-messages-delta
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Get incremental changes (created, updated, deleted) in messages within a specific mail folder using delta tokens to sync a local store without full re-fetch.

Instructions

Get a set of messages added, deleted, or updated in a specified folder. A delta function call for messages in a folder is similar to a GET request, except that by appropriately applying state tokens in one or more of these calls, you can query for incremental changes in the messages in that folder. It allows you to maintain and synchronize a local store of a user's messages without having to fetch the entire set of messages from the server every time.

💡 TIP: Incremental sync of messages within a mail folder. Graph only supports delta scoped to a folder — use mailFolder-id = 'inbox' for the well-known inbox, or another folder id from list-mail-folders. First call returns all messages plus @odata.deltaLink; subsequent calls with that link return only changes (created/updated/deleted). @odata.nextLink paginates within a single delta window. Deltas expire after ~30 days of inactivity — start over if the server returns 410. Prefer this over full re-list for polling.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
topNoPage size (Graph $top). Start small (e.g. 5–15) so responses fit the model context; raise only if needed. Use $select to return fewer fields per item. For more rows, use @odata.nextLink from the response instead of a very large $top.
skipNoItems to skip for pagination. Not supported with $search.
countNoSet true to enable advanced query mode (ConsistencyLevel: eventual). Required for complex $filter on flag/flagStatus or contains().
expandNoNavigation properties to inline, e.g. attachments on a message or event. Only navigation properties can be expanded: expanding a non-navigation property such as a message body fails with "Parsing OData Select and Expand failed", and an unsupported value may be ignored rather than reported. Request ordinary fields with $select instead.
filterNoOData filter expression. Add $count=true for advanced filters (flag/flagStatus, contains()). Cannot combine with $search.
searchNoKQL search query — wrap value in double quotes. Cannot combine with $filter.
selectNoComma-separated fields to return, e.g. id,subject,from,receivedDateTime
orderbyNoSort expression, e.g. receivedDateTime desc
changeTypeNoA custom query option to filter the delta response based on the type of change. Supported values are created, updated or deleted.
mailFolderIdYesValue for the 'mailFolderId' path segment. Pass it under the name 'mailFolderId', not as 'id'. Use the 'id' field of the mail folder object as returned by Microsoft Graph.
fetchAllPagesNoFollow @odata.nextLink and merge up to 100 pages into one response. Can return enormous payloads—only when the user explicitly needs a full export. Prefer a small $top first, then paginate or narrow with $filter/$search.
includeHeadersNoInclude response headers (including ETag) in the response metadata
excludeResponseNoExclude the full response body and only return success or failure indication
Behavior5/5

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

Discloses numerous behavioral traits beyond annotations: state tokens, delta links, expiration after ~30 days, pagination, and error handling (410). No contradictions with readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false.

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?

Well-structured with a clear purpose, technical details, then a tip block. First paragraph is somewhat verbose but necessary to explain the delta concept. Every sentence adds value, and structure aids readability.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Complete given complexity: explains token flow, pagination, expiration, error handling, and parameter nuances. No output schema but description covers key response elements (deltaLink, nextLink). Sufficient for correct agent invocation.

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

Parameters5/5

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

Adds significant meaning beyond input schema: explains $top size guidelines, $count requirement for advanced filters, $expand limitations (only navigation properties, unsupported values ignored), changeType usage, and warnings. Schema coverage is 100% but description enriches each parameter.

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?

Clearly states the tool gets messages added, deleted, or updated in a specified folder. Distinguishes from sibling list-mail-folder-messages by emphasizing delta/incremental changes. The tip reinforces its purpose for incremental sync.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

Explicitly guides when to use: for incremental sync instead of full re-list. Mentions token-based flow, first call vs subsequent calls, and handling of 410 (start over). Provides clear context about pagination and delta links.

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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