Browse Workspace Contents

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

Annotations already indicate read-only, non-destructive, idempotent behavior. The description adds beyond annotations by specifying the return type ('Workspace contents tree with IDs') and explaining the load_all parameter's effect. This provides useful context without contradicting annotations.

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

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

The description is concise with four short sentences, no fluff, and front-loaded with purpose. It efficiently structures the core action and parameter details without redundancy.

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

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

Given the tool's simplicity and no output schema, the description adequately explains what it returns (a tree with IDs) and the optional nested loading. It covers the essential aspects, though it could mention potential large response handling or error scenarios.

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

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

The description adds meaning for the workspace_id parameter (type and purpose) which is missing from the schema, and reiterates the load_all parameter's behavior. With 50% schema description coverage, the description fully compensates by documenting all parameters clearly.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool's purpose with a specific verb ('Get the full contents') and resource ('workspace'), and lists all item types (sheets, reports, folders, dashboards). It effectively distinguishes from the sibling smartsheet_browse_folder by focusing on workspace-level content.

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

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

The description provides a clear usage context ('Use this to discover what resources exist in a workspace before accessing them'), but does not explicitly mention when not to use it or alternatives like smartsheet_browse_folder for folder-level browsing. The usage is implied rather than explicit.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.