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archive_polyglot

Checks ZIP archives for prepended data that makes them valid as other formats like PDF+ZIP or PNG+ZIP, enabling detection of polyglot files used in CTF challenges and filter bypass.

Instructions

Archive polyglot detection. Checks if a ZIP archive has prepended data that could make it valid as another file format (e.g., PDF+ZIP, PNG+ZIP, ELF+ZIP). Polyglot files are used in CTF challenges and to bypass file type filters.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
file_pathYesPath to ZIP archive
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided. The description states it 'checks' but does not clarify whether it is read-only, what the output looks like, or any side effects. Given the lack of annotation support, the description carries the full burden and does not sufficiently disclose behavioral traits.

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

Conciseness5/5

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

The description is three sentences long, front-loading the core action, then explaining the concept and use cases. Every sentence provides value without redundancy.

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

Completeness4/5

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

For a simple detection tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description covers the purpose, input, and common use cases. It could optionally describe the return type (e.g., boolean or details) but is largely complete given the tool's simplicity.

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

Parameters4/5

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

The sole parameter 'file_path' is described in the schema as 'Path to ZIP archive', and the description reinforces that it is for a ZIP archive. With 100% schema coverage, the description adds meaningful context beyond the schema by specifying the file type context.

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?

The description clearly specifies the action ('checks if a ZIP archive has prepended data') and the resource ('ZIP archive'). It distinguishes the tool from siblings like 'create_polyglot' and other archive tools by focusing on detection.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

The description provides context ('used in CTF challenges and to bypass file type filters') but lacks explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'file_polyglot' or other detection tools. Usage is implied but not clearly scoped.

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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