drive_files_update

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

The annotations indicate it is a write operation (readOnlyHint=false), and the description confirms it updates. However, no additional behavioral details are given—e.g., whether content updates replace or append, permission requirements, or error conditions.

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 a single sentence, which is concise but at the cost of completeness. It is appropriately short but lacks necessary details for effective tool invocation.

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?

With no output schema and minimal annotations, the description fails to cover important aspects like return values, side effects, or prerequisites. This leaves the agent underinformed for correct usage.

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?

All parameters have schema descriptions (100% coverage), so the description adds minimal extra meaning. It does hint at the distinction between metadata (name, mimeType) and content (uploadPath) but does not elaborate beyond the 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?

The description clearly states the tool updates a file's metadata or content, distinguishing it from sibling tools like drive_files_copy (copy) and drive_files_create (create). However, it does not explicitly differentiate itself from other update tools in the sibling set.

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 alternatives such as drive_files_copy or docs_batchUpdate. The description lacks context for appropriate usage scenarios.

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