validate_workbook

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

No annotations, so description must carry the burden. It discloses key behavioral traits: no side effects (does not save/export), what gets validated (generated XML vs published schema), and both validation modes. Does not cover performance or output details, but the output schema exists.

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?

Front-loads purpose, follows with mode selection and the save_workbook cross-reference. The Args/Returns block is slightly verbose given the output schema exists, but overall efficient and well-organized.

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?

Covers purpose, the two validation modes, side-effect absence, and parameter semantics. Output schema exists so return explanation is unnecessary. Adequate for a low-complexity single-param tool, though not exhaustive.

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?

Schema coverage is 0% and the single parameter is undocumented in the schema, so the description must compensate. It explains the format (.twb/.twbx) and the dual meaning of omission vs. presence. This is a strong compensation for a null-coverage 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?

States specific verb+resource (validate a workbook) and names the exact schema (Tableau TWB XSD). Distinguishes itself from siblings by clarifying it does not save or export, explicitly deferring to save_workbook.

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?

Explicitly covers the when: omitted file_path validates the in-memory workbook before save, provided file_path validates a disk file. Names save_workbook as the alternative for writing, satisfying the alternatives requirement.

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