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insert_columns

Insert one or more columns into an Excel worksheet at a specified starting column. Specify the sheet, start column, and number of columns.

Instructions

Insert one or more columns starting at the specified column.

Args:
    sheet_name: Name of worksheet
    start_col: Column number to start inserting at
    session_id: Session ID from open_workbook (preferred)
    filepath: Path to Excel file (legacy, deprecated)
    count: Number of columns to insert
    
Note: Use session_id for better performance. filepath parameter is deprecated.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
sheet_nameYes
start_colYes
session_idNo
filepathNo
countNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior2/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It does not disclose behavioral traits such as whether inserting columns shifts existing data, what happens with merged cells, or any side effects. The note about deprecation is helpful but insufficient for a data-modifying operation.

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 with a clear opening sentence, structured Args list, and a brief note. Every sentence adds value without redundancy. It front-loads the core purpose.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Given the 5 parameters, no annotations, and 0% schema coverage, the description covers the purpose and highlights the preferred parameter. However, it lacks explanation of the output schema and potential error conditions, leaving some gaps for a complete understanding.

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

Parameters3/5

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

The description includes an Args section that lists and explains each parameter (sheet_name, start_col, session_id, filepath, count), adding value over the schema which has 0% description coverage. However, it lacks specifics like indexing (1-based vs 0-based) or constraints on count.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description states 'Insert one or more columns starting at the specified column', which clearly identifies the action and resource. However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools like 'insert_rows' or 'delete_sheet_columns', leaving ambiguity about when to use this specific tool.

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 note about preferring session_id over deprecated filepath provides parameter guidance, but no explicit direction on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'insert_rows'. The usage context is implied but not fully articulated.

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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