readGoogleDoc
Retrieve the text content of a Google Doc by providing its document ID.
Instructions
Retrieves the content of a specific Google Doc as plain text.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| docId | Yes | ID of the Google Doc to read |
Retrieve the text content of a Google Doc by providing its document ID.
Retrieves the content of a specific Google Doc as plain text.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| docId | Yes | ID of the Google Doc to read |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v0.3.1Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the burden but appropriately communicates a read-only operation ('Retrieves'). It does not disclose error handling, access permissions, or pagination, but the operation is simple and the plain text output is mentioned.
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?
A single sentence with no wasted words; front-loaded verb and resource.
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 low-complexity tool with no output schema, the description adequately explains the return value (plain text content) and purpose. Slight gap regarding error cases or permissions, but acceptable.
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?
The schema provides complete coverage for the single docId parameter with a clear description. The tool description adds no additional parameter context beyond reinforcing that the doc is identified by its ID, so baseline 3 applies.
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 (Retrieves), the specific resource (a specific Google Doc), and the output format (as plain text), which distinguishes it from sibling listGoogleDocs and readOfficeDoc.
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 usage for reading a specific Google Doc but provides no explicit guidance on when to choose it over alternatives like listGoogleDocs or readOfficeDoc, nor any exclusion criteria.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.