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arcgis-mcp-bridge

rename_layer

Rename a layer in the ArcGIS Pro Contents pane to improve clarity in map outputs. Does not rename the underlying dataset and optionally saves the project.

Instructions

Rename a layer as displayed in the ArcGIS Pro Contents pane by updating lyr.name. Use this to make automated map outputs clearer before export, handoff, or presentation. This renames the map layer only, does not rename the underlying dataset, and saves the .aprx project when save=true.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
paramsYes

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed6 schema fields changedv0.6.3
    • addedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / description
      Added value: +"Input contract for renaming a layer in a selected map."
    • changedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / properties / aprx_path / description
      Previous value: -"Absolute .aprx path."New value: +"Absolute path to the saved ArcGIS Pro .aprx project file. The path must be inside a configured PathGuard allowed root. Tools operate on the saved project file, not a live open ArcGIS Pro session."
    • changedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / properties / layer_name / description
      Previous value: -"Layer (Contents) name."New value: +"Layer name as shown in the ArcGIS Pro Contents pane for the selected map. The layer must exist in the resolved map."
    • changedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / properties / map_name / description
      Previous value: -"Map name; None targets the first map."New value: +"Name of the map inside the .aprx project. Use None to target the first map returned by ArcGIS Pro."
    • addedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / properties / new_name / description
      Added value: +"New layer name to display in the ArcGIS Pro Contents pane. This renames the map layer only and does not rename the underlying dataset."
    • addedInput schema / $defs / RenameLayerInput / properties / save / description
      Added value: +"When true, save the .aprx project after renaming the layer."
  2. First observedv1.0.0

TDQS

A4.3/5.0
Behavior5/5

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

No annotations are provided, so the description bears full responsibility. It clearly explains that the tool modifies only the map layer's display name, not the underlying dataset, and that it saves the project when 'save=true'. This provides necessary behavioral context.

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 three sentences long, each adding value. The first sentence states the core action, the second provides a use context, and the third clarifies scope and side-effect. No unnecessary words.

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 tool has moderate complexity with 5 parameters and an output schema. The description covers purpose, scope, and key behavior. It does not detail return values, but this is acceptable since an output schema exists. Minor gaps in parameter explanation are partially offset by the schema descriptions (though coverage is stated as 0%).

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

Parameters2/5

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

Context signals indicate 0% schema description coverage, meaning the description must compensate. However, the description only mentions the 'save' parameter effect and does not explain 'aprx_path', 'layer_name', 'new_name', or 'map_name'. This is insufficient for a tool with 5 parameters.

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: renaming a layer in the ArcGIS Pro Contents pane by updating 'lyr.name'. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like 'rename_dataset' by specifying it renames only the map layer, not the underlying dataset.

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 provides a use case: 'to make automated map outputs clearer before export, handoff, or presentation.' It implies when to use but does not explicitly state alternatives or when not to use. Given the sibling tools, the guidance is adequate but not exhaustive.

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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