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slack_conversations_history

Read-onlyIdempotent

Retrieve message history from Slack channels or direct messages, automatically converting user IDs to display names, with optional time range and message count limits.

Instructions

Get messages from a channel or DM with user names resolved

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
channel_idYesChannel or DM ID (e.g., D063M4403MW)
limitNoMessages to fetch (max 100, default 50)
oldestNoUnix timestamp - get messages after this time (boundary timestamp included)
latestNoUnix timestamp - get messages before this time (boundary timestamp included)
resolve_usersNoConvert user IDs to names (default true)
include_rich_message_fieldsNoInclude Slack message attachments, blocks, metadata, files, and reactions when present
include_all_metadataNoPass Slack's include_all_metadata option to conversations.history
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and openWorldHint, covering safety and idempotency. The description adds minimal behavioral context (e.g., user name resolution) but does not address pagination 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?

Single sentence, no filler, front-loaded with key action and resource.

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

Completeness2/5

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

With 7 parameters (all with schema descriptions) and no output schema, the description is too brief. It does not mention return format, pagination behavior, or how to handle large histories.

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?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema fully explains each parameter. The description adds no additional parameter meaning beyond what is already in the schema.

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 uses a specific verb ('Get') and resource ('messages from a channel or DM'), and mentions a distinct feature ('with user names resolved'). However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools such as slack_get_full_conversation or slack_get_thread.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like slack_get_full_conversation or slack_get_thread. Usage context is implied but not explicit.

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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