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read_url

Destructive

Retrieve and extract text from a document at a given URL. Supports PDF and plain text; can limit to specific pages.

Instructions

Download a document from a URL and extract its text content (max 50MB). Use this when the document is hosted online rather than in the local directory; supports PDF and plain text URLs. Read-only, downloads to a temporary file.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pagesNoOptional page ranges to read, e.g. "1-5", "10", "1-3,7,10-12". If omitted, returns full text.
urlYesThe URL of the document to download and read
Behavior1/5

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

Description claims 'Read-only' while annotations set destructiveHint=true, a direct contradiction. Additionally, the temporary file download is not explained as a side effect.

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?

Two sentences with no wasted words. Action, constraints, and usage guidance are front-loaded.

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?

Explains result (text content) and constraints (max 50MB, supported types). Lacks error scenarios or output format, but sufficient for a simple retrieval tool.

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%, but description adds value by stating max file size and supported formats, which are not in schema. Adds context beyond 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?

Clearly states the verb 'Download and extract text content' from a URL, distinguishing from sibling tools that handle local documents.

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

Usage Guidelines4/5

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

Explicitly tells when to use ('hosted online') and mentions supported types (PDF, plain text) and a max size (50MB). Lacks explicit alternative names but provides clear context.

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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