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ppt_read

Extract text content from PowerPoint files. Use this tool to access slide data programmatically.

Instructions

Read content from a PowerPoint file

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Implementation Reference

  • server.js:69-69 (registration)
    Tool 'ppt_read' is registered in the TOOLS array with description 'Read content from a PowerPoint file'.
    ["ppt_read", "Read content from a PowerPoint file"],
  • The handler for 'ppt_read' is a stub that returns an inspection message instead of real logic. The real implementation exists in a native binary not present in this codebase.
    for (const [name, desc] of TOOLS) {
      server.tool(name, desc, {}, async () => ({
        content: [{ type: "text", text: "This is an inspection stub. Install Local MCP: npx -y local-mcp@latest setup" }],
      }));
    }
Behavior2/5

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

Without annotations, the description offers minimal behavioral detail. It states 'read content' but does not clarify how the file is selected (e.g., active document, file dialog) or any error conditions. This lack of transparency could lead to incorrect usage.

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 a single, concise sentence that is front-loaded with the key action and resource. No unnecessary words.

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

Completeness3/5

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

Given the simplicity (zero parameters, no output schema), the description is mostly complete but lacks detail on how the file is accessed. This missing context could confuse an agent about prerequisites.

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

Parameters4/5

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

The input schema has zero parameters, so the description does not need to add parameter details. Baseline for no parameters is 4, and the description is adequate here.

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 tool reads content from a PowerPoint file, which is a specific verb-resource pair. This effectively distinguishes it from sibling tools like ppt_create (creation) and pdf_read (different format).

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 is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites, context (e.g., whether a file must be open), or when not to use it.

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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