excel_write_cell

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

No annotations are present, so the description carries full behavioral burden. It adds that the change appears immediately, which is useful, but does not disclose overwrite behavior (destructive), permissions, or undo capabilities. The schema already hints at formula support in 'value' description.

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?

Two sentences with no wasted words. The purpose and an immediate behavioral trait are front-loaded. Highly concise 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?

For a tool with 4 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is minimal. It lacks details on prerequisites (e.g., workbook must be open), overwrite behavior, and return value. An agent would need to infer or guess critical usage 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 50% (only 'cell' and 'value' have descriptions). The description does not add meaning for the undocumented parameters 'workbook' and 'sheet', nor does it clarify their role or defaults. No parameter semantics beyond what schema provides.

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 'write' and resource 'cell', specifies 'single value', and adds 'change appears immediately.' This distinguishes it from sibling tools like excel_write_range (writes multiple cells) and excel_read_cell (reads).

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 use for single cell writes but does not explicitly mention when to use alternatives like excel_write_range for multiple cells or excel_read_cell for checking existing values. No 'when not to use' guidance is provided.

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