merge_table_cells

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden but only states the action. It does not disclose what happens when the cell range overlaps existing merged cells, whether the merge is additive, or any side effects. Minimal transparency.

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 very short (4 words), which is concise but lacks structure. It does not front-load critical information or use formatting. While brevity is valued, it sacrifices completeness.

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?

The description is severely incomplete given the tool's complexity (6 required parameters), no annotations, and no output schema. The agent has no information about cell range validity, table constraints, or return values, making correct invocation unlikely without additional context.

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%, and the description adds no parameter details. The 6 required parameters (doc_id, table_index, start_row, start_col, end_row, end_col) are not explained. The description does not compensate for the lack of schema descriptions, providing no meaning beyond the raw parameter names.

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 'Merge' and the resource 'a range of table cells', indicating the tool's action and target. However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools merge_table_cells_horizontal and merge_table_cells_vertical, which perform similar operations in specific directions.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus the sibling tools merge_table_cells_horizontal or merge_table_cells_vertical. The description does not mention prerequisites or context, leaving the agent with no criteria for selection.

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