remove_modal_volume_file

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the full burden. It discloses the destructive nature (deleting files/directories) and the requirement for recursive for directories. However, it lacks details on success/failure behavior, error messages, permissions required, or idempotency, which would be beneficial for an agent.

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 concise, starting with the tool's purpose in one sentence, followed by parameter explanations and return value. Every sentence adds value without redundancy.

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?

Given the simple operation (delete file/directory), the description covers all necessary aspects: purpose, parameters with constraints, and return value. The presence of an output schema further reduces the need to describe return format. The description is complete for the tool's complexity.

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 coverage is 0%, but the description explains each parameter beyond the schema: volume_name ('Name of the Modal volume to delete from'), remote_path ('Path to the file or directory to delete'), and recursive ('If True, delete directories recursively. Required for deleting directories.'). This fully compensates for the lack of schema descriptions.

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 'Delete a file or directory from a Modal volume.' The verb 'delete' combined with the resource 'Modal volume' makes the tool's purpose unambiguous, and it is easily distinguished from sibling tools like copy_modal_volume_files or put_modal_volume_file.

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 provides guidance on the recursive parameter, stating it is 'Required for deleting directories.' This helps the agent decide when to set it. However, it does not explicitly contrast with alternatives like copy_modal_volume_files or put_modal_volume_file, which would improve decision-making.

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