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list_inbox_emails

Retrieve inbox emails from all accounts or a specific account, with filters for read status, content preview, and maximum count.

Instructions

List all emails from inbox across all accounts or a specific account.

Replaces the former get_recent_emails tool — use account + max_emails to get recent emails from a single account.

Args: account: Optional account name to filter (e.g., "Gmail", "Work"). If None, shows all accounts. max_emails: Maximum number of emails to return per account (0 = all) include_read: Whether to include read emails (default: True) include_content: Whether to include a content preview for each email (slower, default: False) output_format: "text" (default, human-readable) or "json" (structured list of email dicts)

Returns: Formatted list of emails with subject, sender, date, and read status

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
accountNo
max_emailsNo
include_readNo
include_contentNo
output_formatNotext

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

No annotations provided, but description discloses that include_content makes it slower, account=None shows all accounts, and returns formatted list. Good transparency for a read tool.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Well-structured with Args and Returns sections. Could be slightly more concise by integrating the replacement note, but overall efficient and front-loaded with purpose.

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?

Given output schema exists, description covers return format, all parameters, behavioral notes, and usage hints. Comprehensive for a list tool.

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

Parameters5/5

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

Schema coverage is 0%, but description fully explains each parameter: account filtering, max_emails=0 meaning all, include_read default, include_content being slower, output_format options. Adds significant value beyond 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?

Clearly states 'List all emails from inbox across all accounts or a specific account.' Uses specific verb and resource, distinguishes from sibling by noting replacement of get_recent_emails and optional filters.

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?

Provides guidance on using account and max_emails for recent emails from single account. Doesn't explicitly compare to other list/search tools, but context is clear.

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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