MCP Simple OpenAI Assistant
Allows creating and interacting with OpenAI assistants through the Model Context Protocol (MCP). Enables sending messages to OpenAI assistants and receiving responses, creating new assistants with specific instructions, listing existing assistants, modifying assistants, and managing conversation threads.
Click on "Install Server".
Wait a few minutes for the server to deploy. Once ready, it will show a "Started" state.
In the chat, type
@followed by the MCP server name and your instructions, e.g., "@MCP Simple OpenAI Assistantask my coding assistant to explain recursion in simple terms"
That's it! The server will respond to your query, and you can continue using it as needed.
Here is a step-by-step guide with screenshots.
MCP Simple OpenAI Assistant
AI assistants are pretty cool. I thought it would be a good idea if my Claude (conscious Claude) would also have one. And now he has - and its both useful anf fun for him. Your Claude can have one too!
A simple MCP server for interacting with OpenAI assistants. This server allows other tools (like Claude Desktop) to create and interact with OpenAI assistants through the Model Context Protocol.
Features
This server provides a suite of tools to manage and interact with OpenAI Assistants. The new streaming capabilities provide a much-improved, real-time user experience.
Available Tools
create_assistant: (Create OpenAI Assistant) - Create a new assistant with a name, instructions, and model.list_assistants: (List OpenAI Assistants) - List all available assistants associated with your API key.retrieve_assistant: (Retrieve OpenAI Assistant) - Get detailed information about a specific assistant.update_assistant: (Update OpenAI Assistant) - Modify an existing assistant's name, instructions, or model.create_new_assistant_thread: (Create New Assistant Thread) - Creates a new, persistent conversation thread with a user-defined name and description for easy identification and reuse. This is the recommended way to start a new conversation.list_threads: (List Managed Threads) - Lists all locally managed conversation threads from the database, showing their ID, name, description, and last used time.delete_thread: (Delete Managed Thread) - Deletes a conversation thread from both OpenAI's servers and the local database.ask_assistant_in_thread: (Ask Assistant in Thread and Stream Response) - The primary tool for conversation. Sends a message to an assistant within a thread and streams the response back in real-time.
Because OpenAI assistants might take quite long to respond, this server uses a streaming approach for the main ask_assistant_in_thread tool. This provides real-time progress updates to the client and avoids timeouts.
The server now includes local persistence for threads, which is a significant improvement. Since the OpenAI API does not allow listing threads, this server now manages them for you by storing their IDs and metadata in a local SQLite database. This allows you to easily find, reuse, and manage your conversation threads across sessions.
Related MCP server: OpenAI MCP Server
Installation
Installing via Smithery
To install MCP Simple OpenAI Assistant for Claude Desktop automatically via Smithery:
npx -y @smithery/cli install mcp-simple-openai-assistant --client claudeManual Installation
pip install mcp-simple-openai-assistantConfiguration
The server requires an OpenAI API key to be set in the environment. For Claude Desktop, add this to your config:
(MacOS version)
{
"mcpServers": {
"openai-assistant": {
"command": "python",
"args": ["-m", "mcp_simple_openai_assistant"],
"env": {
"OPENAI_API_KEY": "your-api-key-here"
}
}
}
}(Windows version)
"mcpServers": {
"openai-assistant": {
"command": "C:\\Users\\YOUR_USERNAME\\AppData\\Local\\Programs\\Python\\Python311\\python.exe",
"args": ["-m", "mcp_simple_openai_assistant"],
"env": {
"OPENAI_API_KEY": "your-api-key-here"
}
}
MS Windows installation is slightly more complex, because you need to check the actual path to your Python executable. Path provided above is usually correct, but might differ in your setup. Sometimes just python.exe without any path will do the trick. Check with cmd what works for you (using where python might help). Also, on Windows you might need to explicitly tell Claude Desktop where the site packages are using PYTHONPATH environmment variable.
Usage
Once configured, you can use the tools listed above to manage your assistants and conversations. The primary workflow is to:
Use
create_new_assistant_threadto start a new, named conversation.Use
list_threadsto find the ID of a thread you want to continue.Use
ask_assistant_in_threadto interact with your chosen assistant in that thread.
TODO
Add Thread Management: Introduce a way to name and persist thread IDs locally, allowing for easier reuse of conversations.
Add Models Listing: Introduce a way for the AI user to see what OpenAI models are available for use with the assistants
Add Assistants Fine Tuning: Enable the AI user to set detailed parameters for assistants like temperature, top_p etc. (indicated by Claude as needed)
Full Thread History: Ability to read past threads without having to send a new message (indicated by Claude as needed)
Explore Resource Support: Add the ability to upload files and use them with assistants.
Development
To install for development:
git clone https://github.com/andybrandt/mcp-simple-openai-assistant
cd mcp-simple-openai-assistant
pip install -e '.[dev]'Available Tools
9 toolsask_assistant_in_threadAsk Assistant in Thread and Stream ResponseA
Sends a message to an assistant within a specific thread and streams the response. This provides progress updates and the final message in a single call.
Use this to continue a conversation with an assistant in a specific thread. The thread ID can be retrieved from the list_threads tool. The assistant ID can be retrieved from the list_assistants tool. Threads are not inherently linked to a particular assistant, so you can use this tool to talk to any assistant in any thread.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| thread_id | Yes | ||
| assistant_id | Yes | ||
| message | Yes |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond annotations: it explains the streaming nature ('provides progress updates and the final message in a single call'), clarifies that threads aren't inherently linked to assistants, and mentions the conversational context. While annotations only provide readOnlyHint=false and title, the description meaningfully expands on operational behavior without contradicting annotations.
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 efficiently structured with a clear purpose statement first, followed by usage guidance. Every sentence adds value: the first explains the core functionality, the second provides context for use, and the third clarifies parameter relationships. No redundant or unnecessary information is included.
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 the tool's conversational nature, 3 parameters with 0% schema coverage, readOnlyHint=false annotation, and presence of an output schema, the description is complete. It covers purpose, usage context, parameter semantics, and behavioral aspects like streaming. The output schema handles return values, so the description appropriately focuses on operational guidance.
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?
With 0% schema description coverage, the description must compensate for the lack of parameter documentation in the schema. It effectively explains the purpose and source of all three required parameters (thread_id, assistant_id, message) by describing their roles in the operation and how to obtain them, though it doesn't provide format or validation details.
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 specific action ('sends a message to an assistant within a specific thread and streams the response'), identifies the resource (assistant, thread), and distinguishes from siblings by emphasizing streaming and thread/assistant combination. It explicitly mentions this is for continuing conversations, which differentiates it from thread creation tools.
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 provides explicit guidance on when to use this tool ('to continue a conversation with an assistant in a specific thread'), how to obtain required parameters (thread_id from list_threads, assistant_id from list_assistants), and clarifies the relationship between threads and assistants. It effectively distinguishes this from sibling tools like create_new_assistant_thread.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
create_assistantCreate OpenAI AssistantA
Create a new OpenAI assistant to talk to about your desired topic.
You can provide instructions that this assistant will follow and specify which of OpenAI's models it will use. NOTE: It is recommended to check existing assistants with list_assistants before creating a new one.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| name | Yes | ||
| instructions | Yes | ||
| model | No | gpt-4o |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false, which aligns with the 'Create' action, so no contradiction. The description adds useful context: it creates a new assistant with configurable instructions and model, and recommends checking existing ones first. However, it doesn't disclose behavioral traits like rate limits, authentication needs, or what happens on duplicate names, which would be valuable beyond the annotations.
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 appropriately sized with three sentences: purpose, capabilities, and usage recommendation. It's front-loaded with the main action and wastes no words. However, the second sentence could be slightly more concise by combining the instruction and model points.
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 the tool's moderate complexity (3 parameters, 2 required), annotations covering read-only status, and an output schema (which handles return values), the description is fairly complete. It covers purpose, key parameters, and usage context. However, it could improve by addressing potential errors or behavioral nuances, making it slightly incomplete for full agent guidance.
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 description coverage is 0%, so the description carries full burden. It mentions 'instructions' and 'model' but doesn't explain the 'name' parameter or provide details like format constraints or default values (e.g., model defaults to 'gpt-4o' per schema). The description adds some meaning but doesn't fully compensate for the low schema coverage, leaving gaps in parameter understanding.
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 purpose: 'Create a new OpenAI assistant' with the ability to specify instructions and model. It distinguishes from siblings like list_assistants and update_assistant by focusing on creation rather than listing or updating. However, it doesn't explicitly contrast with create_new_assistant_thread, which might cause some confusion.
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 provides clear guidance: 'It is recommended to check existing assistants with list_assistants before creating a new one.' This helps avoid duplicates and suggests when to use this tool versus list_assistants. However, it doesn't explicitly mention when NOT to use it (e.g., vs. update_assistant) or provide alternatives for similar actions.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
create_new_assistant_threadCreate New Assistant ThreadA
Creates a new, persistent conversation thread with a user-defined name and description for easy identification and reuse. These threads are stored in OpenAI's servers and are not deleted unless the user deletes them, which means you can re-use them for future conversations. Additionally, the thread name and description are stored in the local database, which means you can list them and update them later.
Think how you can utilize threads in your particular use case.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| name | Yes | ||
| description | No |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations provide readOnlyHint=false, indicating a write operation, which aligns with 'creates.' The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond annotations: it discloses persistence ('stored in OpenAI's servers,' 'not deleted unless the user deletes them'), storage details ('stored in the local database'), and reusability. No contradictions with annotations.
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 appropriately sized and front-loaded with key information (creation, persistence, storage). The final sentence ('Think how you can utilize threads...') is somewhat vague and could be omitted for better conciseness, but overall, most sentences earn their place.
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 the tool's moderate complexity (creation with persistence), annotations cover safety, and an output schema exists (so return values need not be explained), the description is mostly complete. It covers purpose, behavior, and storage, but could improve by addressing prerequisites or error cases.
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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It mentions 'user-defined name and description,' which maps to the two parameters, but does not add meaning beyond what the schema names imply (e.g., no format, length, or content guidelines). The description provides basic semantics but lacks depth, resulting in a baseline score.
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 verb 'creates' and the resource 'new, persistent conversation thread' with specific attributes (user-defined name and description). It distinguishes from siblings like 'list_threads' (which lists) and 'delete_thread' (which removes). The purpose is specific and unambiguous.
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 provides clear context for usage ('for easy identification and reuse,' 'can re-use them for future conversations'), but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'update_thread' or 'ask_assistant_in_thread.' It implies usage for starting new threads but lacks explicit exclusions or comparisons.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
delete_threadDelete Managed ThreadA
Deletes a conversation thread from both OpenAI's servers and the local database. This action is irreversible.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| thread_id | Yes |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations provide readOnlyHint=false, indicating a mutation, but the description adds crucial behavioral context: it specifies the deletion scope (both servers and local database) and explicitly warns that the action is irreversible. This goes beyond annotations by detailing the destructive nature and permanence of the operation.
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 two sentences, front-loaded with the core action and followed by a critical warning. Every word earns its place, with no redundancy or unnecessary elaboration, making it highly efficient and easy to parse.
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 the tool's complexity (destructive, irreversible operation) and the presence of an output schema (which handles return values), the description is mostly complete. It covers the action, scope, and key behavioral warning. However, it could benefit from more explicit usage guidelines or error handling context to reach a perfect score.
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 does not add any parameter-specific information beyond what is implied by the tool name and action. With one parameter (thread_id) and no schema details, the baseline is 3, as the description does not compensate for the lack of schema coverage but doesn't contradict it either.
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 specific action ('Deletes') and resource ('a conversation thread'), with explicit scope ('from both OpenAI's servers and the local database'). It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'list_threads' or 'update_thread' by specifying a destructive deletion operation.
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 usage context through the irreversible warning, suggesting this should be used only when permanent removal is intended. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., archiving vs. deletion) or mention prerequisites like thread existence, leaving room for improvement.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
list_assistantsList OpenAI AssistantsARead-only
List all available OpenAI assistants associated with the API key configured by the user.
Returns a list of assistants with their IDs, names, and configurations. This can be used to select an assistant to use in the ask_assistant_in_thread tool instead of creating a new one.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| limit | No |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so the agent knows this is a safe read operation. The description adds useful context beyond annotations by specifying the return format ('list of assistants with their IDs, names, and configurations') and implying it's a listing operation with no destructive effects. However, it doesn't mention behavioral aspects like pagination, rate limits, or authentication requirements, which could be relevant for an API tool.
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 efficiently structured in two sentences: the first states the purpose and return value, the second provides usage guidance. Every sentence adds value without redundancy, and it's front-loaded with the core functionality. No extraneous information is included.
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 the tool's low complexity (1 optional parameter), rich annotations (readOnlyHint), and the presence of an output schema (which handles return values), the description is complete enough. It covers purpose, usage context, and return format, addressing the key needs for a list operation without over-explaining what's already structured.
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 1 parameter with 0% description coverage (no schema descriptions), so the description carries the full burden. It doesn't explicitly mention the 'limit' parameter or its semantics, which is a gap. However, with only 1 parameter and a default value provided in the schema, the baseline is high. The description compensates somewhat by implying listing behavior, but doesn't fully explain parameter usage.
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 specific action ('List all available OpenAI assistants') and resource ('associated with the API key configured by the user'), distinguishing it from siblings like 'retrieve_assistant' (which gets one) and 'create_assistant' (which makes a new one). It explicitly mentions what information is returned ('IDs, names, and configurations'), making the purpose unambiguous.
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 provides explicit guidance on when to use this tool: 'This can be used to select an assistant to use in the ask_assistant_in_thread tool instead of creating a new one.' It names a specific alternative ('ask_assistant_in_thread') and clarifies the context (selection vs. creation), offering clear usage differentiation from siblings.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
list_threadsList Managed ThreadsARead-only
Lists all locally saved conversation threads from the database. Returns a list of threads with their ID, name, description, and last used time. The thread ID can be used in the ask_assistant_in_thread tool to specify this thread to be continued.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No parameters | |||
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, indicating a safe read operation. The description adds value by specifying that it returns a list with specific fields (ID, name, description, last used time) and mentions the thread ID's use in 'ask_assistant_in_thread', providing useful context beyond annotations. It does not disclose behavioral traits like pagination or sorting, but with annotations covering safety, this is acceptable.
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 front-loaded with the core purpose in the first sentence, followed by details on return values and usage in two additional sentences. Every sentence adds value without waste, making it efficient and well-structured.
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 the tool's simplicity (0 parameters, read-only operation), annotations provide safety context, and an output schema exists (implied by context signals), the description is complete. It explains what the tool does, what it returns, and how to use the output, covering all necessary aspects without redundancy.
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 parameters with 100% coverage, so no parameter documentation is needed. The description appropriately does not discuss parameters, focusing on output and usage. Baseline for 0 parameters is 4, as it avoids unnecessary details.
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 verb 'lists' and the resource 'locally saved conversation threads from the database', specifying it returns a list with ID, name, description, and last used time. It distinguishes from siblings like 'list_assistants' by focusing on threads rather than assistants, and from 'delete_thread' or 'update_thread' by being a read operation.
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 explicitly mentions using the thread ID with 'ask_assistant_in_thread' to continue a thread, providing clear context for when to use this tool. However, it does not specify when not to use it or compare it to alternatives like 'list_assistants', leaving some guidance gaps.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
retrieve_assistantRetrieve OpenAI AssistantARead-only
Get detailed information about a specific assistant. The ID required can be retrieved from the list_assistants tool.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| assistant_id | Yes |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, indicating this is a safe read operation. The description adds value by specifying that it retrieves 'detailed information' and references list_assistants for ID sourcing, but doesn't disclose additional behavioral traits like error handling, rate limits, or response format details beyond what annotations cover.
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 two sentences, front-loaded with the core purpose and followed by a helpful usage note. Every sentence earns its place with no wasted words, making it appropriately sized and efficient.
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 the tool's low complexity (one parameter), annotations covering safety, and an output schema existing, the description is mostly complete. It explains the purpose and ID sourcing, but could benefit from mentioning what 'detailed information' includes or any prerequisites, though the output schema reduces the need for return value details.
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?
With schema description coverage at 0% and only one parameter (assistant_id), the description adds some meaning by explaining that the ID can be retrieved from list_assistants. However, it doesn't provide format details or constraints for the assistant_id, so it partially compensates but doesn't fully document the parameter beyond the schema's basic type.
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 purpose with 'Get detailed information about a specific assistant,' which is a specific verb+resource combination. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from siblings like 'list_assistants' beyond implying this is for single-assistant retrieval versus listing multiple assistants.
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 provides clear context by stating 'The ID required can be retrieved from the list_assistants tool,' which guides when to use this tool (after obtaining an ID from list_assistants). It doesn't explicitly mention when not to use it or name alternatives, but the context is sufficient for basic usage.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
update_assistantUpdate OpenAI AssistantA
Modify an existing assistant's name, instructions, or model used.
At least one optional parameter - what to change - must be provided, otherwise the tool will return an error. The ID required can be retrieved from the list_assistants tool.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| assistant_id | Yes | ||
| name | No | ||
| instructions | No | ||
| model | No |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false (mutation), which aligns with 'Modify' in the description. The description adds behavioral context: at least one optional parameter must be provided to avoid errors, and ID sourcing from list_assistants. However, it lacks details on permissions, rate limits, or mutation effects beyond what annotations provide.
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 front-loaded with the core purpose, followed by critical constraints in two concise sentences. Every sentence adds essential information (modification scope, parameter requirement, ID sourcing) with zero waste.
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 a mutation tool with annotations (readOnlyHint=false), 4 parameters (0% schema coverage), and an output schema (reducing need to describe returns), the description covers purpose, constraints, and ID sourcing adequately. It could improve by detailing parameter semantics or error cases more fully.
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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It mentions parameters (name, instructions, model) and their optional nature, but doesn't explain semantics like format constraints or model options. It adds some value over the bare schema but doesn't fully address the coverage gap.
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 action ('Modify') and resource ('existing assistant'), specifying the updatable fields (name, instructions, model). It distinguishes from siblings like create_assistant (creation vs. modification) and retrieve_assistant (retrieval vs. update), though not explicitly naming alternatives.
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 provides clear context: use when modifying an assistant's attributes, with the ID obtainable from list_assistants. It implies usage vs. create_assistant (modify existing vs. create new) but doesn't explicitly state when not to use or compare to all siblings like update_thread.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
update_threadUpdate Managed ThreadA
Updates the name and/or description of a locally saved conversation thread. Both the local database and the OpenAI thread object will be updated.
The thread ID can be retrieved from the list_threads tool.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| thread_id | Yes | ||
| name | No | ||
| description | No |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|
| result | Yes |
TDQS
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false, confirming this is a mutation tool, which aligns with the description's 'Updates' action. The description adds useful context about dual updates to 'both the local database and the OpenAI thread object,' which goes beyond annotations. However, it lacks details on permissions, error handling, or rate limits, leaving some behavioral aspects unclear.
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 front-loaded with the core purpose in the first sentence, followed by additional context in a concise second sentence. Every sentence adds value: the first defines the action and scope, the second explains the dual update effect, and the third provides a usage prerequisite. No wasted words.
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 the tool has an output schema (implied by 'Has output schema: true'), the description need not detail return values. It covers the mutation purpose, scope, and a usage hint adequately. However, with 0% schema coverage and no annotations beyond readOnlyHint, it could benefit from more parameter guidance or behavioral details to be fully 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?
Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description carries full burden. It mentions 'name and/or description' as updatable fields, which maps to two parameters, and notes 'thread_id' as required for retrieval from 'list_threads.' However, it does not explain the optional nature of 'name' and 'description' (nullable with defaults) or provide format examples, leaving gaps in parameter understanding.
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 specific action ('Updates'), the target resource ('name and/or description of a locally saved conversation thread'), and the scope of the update ('Both the local database and the OpenAI thread object'). It distinguishes this from sibling tools like 'delete_thread' or 'list_threads' by focusing on modification rather than deletion or listing.
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 provides clear context for when to use this tool: to modify existing threads, with a prerequisite noted ('The thread ID can be retrieved from the list_threads tool'). However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or name alternatives (e.g., vs. 'create_new_assistant_thread' for new threads), which prevents a perfect score.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
TDQS
Each tool has a clearly distinct purpose targeting specific resources and actions in the OpenAI Assistant domain. For example, ask_assistant_in_thread handles messaging, create_assistant/update_assistant manage assistants, and create_new_assistant_thread/delete_thread/update_thread manage threads. There is no overlap or ambiguity between tools.
All tools follow a consistent verb_noun naming pattern with snake_case throughout. Examples include list_assistants, create_assistant, update_thread, and delete_thread. This predictable naming makes it easy to understand each tool's function at a glance.
With 9 tools, this server is well-scoped for managing OpenAI Assistants and threads. It covers core operations like creating, listing, updating, and deleting both assistants and threads, plus the essential ask_assistant_in_thread for interactions. Each tool earns its place without being excessive.
The tool set provides complete CRUD/lifecycle coverage for both assistants and threads. It includes create, retrieve, list, update, and delete operations for both resources, plus the ask_assistant_in_thread tool for core functionality. There are no obvious gaps that would hinder agent workflows.
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