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ibmkevin

github-mcp-server

by ibmkevin

list_issues

Retrieve GitHub issues for a specified repository, filtering by state or labels and returning issue details like title, state, labels, author, and URL.

Instructions

List issues for a GitHub repository. Returns issue number, title, state, labels, author, and URL.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
repoYesRepository name
ownerYesRepository owner (user or organisation)
stateNoFilter by state: open | closed | allopen
labelsNoComma-separated label names to filter by (e.g. 'bug,help wanted')
per_pageNoNumber of issues to return (1–50, default 20)

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. First observedv0.1.0

TDQS

A4.1/5.0
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the burden. It describes the return data but does not disclose side effects, permissions, or limitations such as read-only nature or rate limits.

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 and to the point, with no redundant information.

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?

The description covers the main purpose and return fields, but lacks details like pagination or sorting options. However, for a simple listing tool, it is sufficiently complete.

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

Parameters5/5

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

All parameters have clear descriptions, including enums, defaults, and ranges. The schema provides comprehensive parameter semantics.

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?

The description clearly states the action (list), the resource (issues for a GitHub repository), and the return fields. It is distinct from sibling tools like search_repositories and read_file_contents.

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 description does not explicitly mention when to use this tool instead of alternatives. It is implied but not stated, so guidance is limited.

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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