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move_email

Move emails between mailboxes using subject, sender, or date filters. Preview matches with dry run mode, or move only read emails when archiving.

Instructions

Move email(s) matching filters from one mailbox to another.

Supports subject, sender, and date filters. Use dry_run=True to preview matches without moving. Set only_read=True to skip unread emails (useful for archiving). For archiving to "Archive", just set to_mailbox="Archive". Pass message_ids to move specific messages by exact id (ignores other filters; same fast path as update_email_status).

Args: account: Account name (e.g., "Gmail", "Work") to_mailbox: Destination mailbox name. For nested mailboxes, use "/" separator (e.g., "Projects/Amplify Impact") subject_keyword: Optional keyword to search for in email subjects from_mailbox: Source mailbox name (default: "INBOX") max_moves: Maximum number of emails to move (default: 50, safety limit) subject_keywords: Optional list of keywords to match in subjects; matches any keyword sender: Optional sender to filter emails by older_than_days: Optional age filter - only move emails older than N days dry_run: If True, preview what would be moved without acting (default: False) only_read: If True, only move emails that have been read (default: False) message_ids: Optional list of exact Mail message ids for precise targeting. When set, all other filters are ignored.

Returns: Confirmation message with details of moved emails

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
senderNo
accountYes
dry_runNo
max_movesNo
only_readNo
to_mailboxYes
message_idsNo
from_mailboxNoINBOX
older_than_daysNo
subject_keywordNo
subject_keywordsNo

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior3/5

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

Discloses key behaviors like dry_run preview, only_read skipping unread, and message_ids overriding filters. Mentions a safety limit (max_moves=50). However, with no annotations, it lacks details on irreversibility, permissions, or error states that a mutation tool should declare.

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?

Front-loaded with a one-line purpose, followed by useful usage tips and a well-organized parameter list. Slightly long but every part adds value, with no wasted sentences.

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?

Given 11 parameters and no annotations, the description covers most aspects: filtering, preview, archiving, exact IDs. Mentions return value briefly. Lacks clarification on overlap between subject_keyword and subject_keywords, but otherwise complete.

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%, so description fully documents all 11 parameters. The Args section adds clear purpose, defaults, and usage examples (e.g., nested mailboxes with '/'), going well beyond schema names and types.

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 'Move email(s) matching filters from one mailbox to another', using specific verbs and resources. It distinguishes from siblings by mentioning a special path similar to update_email_status and providing archiving guidance.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

Provides usage tips (dry_run, only_read, archiving) and explains message_ids for precise targeting. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus siblings like search_emails or export_emails, nor does it list exclusions or prerequisites.

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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