add_excel_sheet

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It explains that the tool adds an empty sheet, allows insertion at a position, and returns a confirmation. It does not mention potential side effects (e.g., file locking) or permissions needed, but for a simple additive operation, the behavior is adequately transparent.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is concise, with a clear summary line followed by structured parameter documentation. Every sentence adds value, and no unnecessary information is present.

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

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

Given that an output schema exists and the tool is simple (3 parameters), the description covers the essential aspects: purpose, parameters, and return type. It could mention error handling (e.g., file not found, duplicate name), but the constraints are clear, making it reasonably complete.

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

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

The input schema has 0% description coverage, but the description compensates fully with detailed @param lines for all three parameters: file path absolute path, sheet name uniqueness constraint, and position with default behavior. This adds significant meaning beyond the schema.

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

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

The description clearly states the tool's function: 'Add a new empty sheet to an existing workbook.' It uses a specific verb and resource, and the sibling tools (e.g., list_sheets, create_excel_file) show distinction, making it unambiguous what this tool does.

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

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

The description implies when to use the tool (to add a sheet) and provides constraints (sheet_name must not exist, position can be None). However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or recommend alternatives, such as when a sheet with that name already exists or for copying sheets.

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