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get_file_metadata

Retrieve detailed metadata for files or directories, including hidden items, to analyze file system information within the AI FileSystem MCP server.

Instructions

Get detailed metadata about a file or directory

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
pathYesPath to the file or directory
includeHiddenNoInclude hidden file information
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the tool retrieves metadata but doesn't specify what 'detailed metadata' includes (e.g., size, permissions, timestamps), whether it requires specific permissions, or if there are rate limits. This leaves significant gaps for a tool that likely interacts with file systems.

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 a single, efficient sentence that front-loads the core purpose without unnecessary words. Every part of it contributes directly to understanding the tool's function.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given the complexity of file operations and the lack of annotations and output schema, the description is insufficient. It doesn't explain what metadata is returned, potential errors (e.g., file not found), or system-specific behaviors, leaving the agent with incomplete information for proper use.

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?

The input schema has 100% description coverage, clearly documenting both parameters. The description doesn't add any semantic details beyond what's in the schema (e.g., it doesn't explain path formats or what 'hidden file information' entails), so it meets the baseline but doesn't provide extra value.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states the verb ('Get') and resource ('detailed metadata about a file or directory'), making the purpose immediately understandable. However, it doesn't differentiate from sibling tools like 'list_directory' or 'read_file' which might also retrieve file information, so it doesn't reach the highest score.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'list_directory' for directory contents or 'read_file' for file data. There's no mention of prerequisites, exclusions, or specific contexts for usage.

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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