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maflot

Allen Brain API MCP Server

by maflot

download_well_known_file

Download any Allen Institute file (CSV, NWB, SWC, etc.) by providing its WellKnownFile ID. Obtain the ID via list_well_known_files or execute_rma_query.

Instructions

Download any Allen Institute file by its WellKnownFile ID (obtain via list_well_known_files or execute_rma_query on the WellKnownFile model). Covers transcriptomics CSV matrices, NWB files, SWC reconstructions, and any other bulk download.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
wellKnownFileIdYesWellKnownFile ID to download.
filePathNoLocal path to save the file. Include an appropriate extension (e.g. .zip, .nwb, .swc).
Behavior3/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It describes a read operation (download) and lists file types, but lacks details on error handling, size limits, or authentication. Adequate but not exhaustive.

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?

Two sentences, front-loaded with the main purpose. Every word contributes meaning; no fluff.

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?

No output schema or annotations. The description covers how to use the tool and what file types are supported, but omits details about return format, streaming behavior, or error handling. Slightly incomplete for a download tool.

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?

Input schema has 100% coverage with descriptions for both parameters. The description adds value by specifying that filePath should include an appropriate extension (e.g., .zip, .nwb, .swc), which goes beyond the schema.

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 downloads any Allen Institute file by its WellKnownFile ID, with examples (CSV matrices, NWB, SWC) and methods to obtain the ID. This distinguishes it from specialized download sibling tools.

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

Usage Guidelines4/5

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

The description explains how to obtain the WellKnownFile ID via other tools and covers a broad range of file types. It does not explicitly exclude cases where sibling tools should be used, but the context is clear enough.

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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