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get_control_flow

Read-onlyIdempotent

Build a Control Flow Graph of a function to visualize branching logic, loops, and exception paths. Understand code behavior before making changes.

Instructions

Build a Control Flow Graph (CFG) for a function/method: if/else branches, loops, try/catch, returns, throws. Shows logical paths through the code. Outputs Mermaid diagram, ASCII, or JSON. Use to understand branching logic before modifying complex functions. For call-level graph (who calls whom) use get_call_graph instead. Read-only. Returns Mermaid/ASCII/JSON: { nodes, edges, entryPoint, exitPoints }.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
symbol_idYesSymbol ID of the function/method
fqnYesFully qualified name of the function/method
formatNoOutput format (default: mermaid)
simplifyNoCollapse sequential statements (default: true)
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so the description's 'Read-only' adds little. However, it discloses output structure (nodes, edges, etc.) and the code constructs analyzed, which goes beyond annotations.

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?

Three concise sentences: first states purpose and scope, second gives usage reasoning and alternative, third mentions read-only and output details. Front-loaded and zero waste.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Despite no output schema, the description fully explains the return structure and what code constructs are covered. With rich annotations and schema, this is complete for an agent to correctly invoke the tool.

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 coverage is 100% with descriptions for all parameters. The description adds no additional parameter-level information, so baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 it builds a Control Flow Graph for a function/method, listing specific constructs (branches, loops, etc.) and output formats. It also distinguishes itself from the sibling tool get_call_graph.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

Explicitly advises using it to understand branching logic before modifying complex functions, and directs to get_call_graph for call-level graphs. This provides clear when-to-use and when-not-to-use guidance.

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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