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Destructive

Copy files and set their permissions and ownership for deployment. Creates directories, overwrites existing with --allow_overwrite, default mode 755. Use --dry_run for safe preview.

Instructions

Copy files and set attributes (permissions, ownership) to destination. Destructive: creates files and directories, overwrites existing targets with --allow_overwrite, sets mode (default 755). Use --dry_run for safe preview. Returns JSON with installation paths and status. Use for software deployment scripts and Makefile install targets. Not for simple file copying without permission changes — use 'cp'. Not for GNU-install-compatible behavior — use 'ginstall'. See also 'cp', 'ginstall'.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
allow_overwriteNoAllow replacing an existing destination.
directoryNoCreate directories instead of installing a file.
dry_runNoReport operations without changing files.
modeNoOctal mode applied to installed paths.755
parentsNoCreate missing parent directories.
pathsNoSOURCE DESTINATION, or directories with --directory.
Behavior5/5

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

Goes beyond the destructiveHint annotation by detailing destructive actions (creates files/dirs, overwrites with --allow_overwrite), mentions safe preview via --dry_run, and describes the return format (JSON).

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 concise and well-structured: it starts with the main purpose, followed by key behaviors, usage guidance, and exclusions. Every sentence adds value without redundancy.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Despite having no output schema, the description clarifies the output format (JSON) and covers all essential aspects: destructive nature, options, use cases, and alternatives. It is complete for agent decision-making.

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?

Schema coverage is 100%, so the description doesn't need to explain each parameter in depth. However, it adds value by summarizing key usage (e.g., --dry_run) and default mode, providing context beyond the schema.

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 states the purpose: copying files and setting attributes (permissions, ownership). It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'cp' and 'ginstall', making it easy to select the correct tool.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

Explicitly states when to use (software deployment scripts, Makefile install targets) and when not to (simple copying, GNU-install behavior), with direct references to alternative commands.

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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