Format Table

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

Annotations provide no readOnlyHint or destructiveHint. The description says 'format', implying modification, but does not state whether changes are destructive, reversible, or require specific permissions. No behavioral context beyond the vague verb.

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 a single concise sentence, but it sacrifices clarity for brevity. It front-loads the purpose but omits necessary details, making it only moderately effective.

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?

With 5 parameters, no output schema, and no schema descriptions, the description is insufficient. It does not explain 'structure', border styles, shading array format, or the effect of has_header_row. The agent has too little information to use the tool correctly.

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 description coverage is 0%, yet the description only vaguely references 'borders, shading, and structure', which maps loosely to border_style, shading, and has_header_row. No explicit explanation of parameter meanings or allowed values.

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 states it formats a table with borders, shading, and structure, but the verb 'format' is generic and does not distinguish from sibling tools like highlight_table_header or set_table_shading. The mention of specific elements adds some clarity but lacks precision.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus the many sibling table formatting tools (e.g., merge_table_cells, set_table_alignment_all). The agent receives no context for selection.

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