trim_whitespace

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It states the action but does not mention whether modification is destructive, if it affects only text or also formulas, or any side effects like formatting changes. The description is too minimal for a mutation tool.

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 a single sentence that efficiently conveys the core function with no unnecessary words or filler. It is well-structured for quick comprehension.

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?

With no output schema and no annotations, the description leaves significant gaps. It does not mention return type, error conditions, or whether the operation is synchronous. Given the tool's complexity (modifying cell data), a more complete description is warranted.

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 input schema has two parameters (range and spreadsheet_id) with 0% schema description coverage, meaning the description adds no explanation beyond the schema. The description does not clarify the format or constraints of the parameters, such as what A1 notation means or required authentication context.

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 verb 'trim' and the resource 'whitespace in each cell in an A1 range', making the tool's purpose immediately understandable. However, it does not differentiate from siblings that might also modify cell content, such as 'find_replace' or 'write_range'.

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 no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. For instance, it doesn't mention that 'find_replace' could also handle whitespace cleanup, or that this tool is specifically for whitespace trimming only.

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