get_file
Retrieve detailed metadata for a Canvas LMS file by providing its file ID, including name, size, and download URL.
Instructions
Get file details
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| file_id | Yes | File ID |
Retrieve detailed metadata for a Canvas LMS file by providing its file ID, including name, size, and download URL.
Get file details
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| file_id | Yes | File ID |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections. Dates show when Glama detected each change.
v1.0.0Does 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, but it only says 'Get file details.' It does not reveal whether it returns metadata or content, what permissions are needed, or what side effects, if any, exist. The read-only nature is implied by 'Get' but not elaborated.
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 only three words and contains no fluff or redundancy. It is appropriately short for a simple getter, though it could have used a bit more specificity without bloating.
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?
For a simple single-parameter getter, the description is minimally adequate, but it lacks an output schema and does not clarify what 'details' means. An agent could not confidently distinguish this from list_files or know what kind of response to expect.
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?
Schema description coverage is 100%, so the lone parameter is documented in the schema. However, the parameter description 'File ID' is tautological and the tool description adds no further semantic context. Baseline 3 is appropriate.
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 'Get file details' uses a specific verb and resource, clearly identifying it as a single-file retrieval operation. It distinguishes itself from the sibling list_files by contrasting 'get' with 'list', though 'details' is somewhat vague.
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?
No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus list_files or list_folders. The description does not state that this is for fetching a single known file by ID, nor does it mention any alternative tools or exclusions.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
We provide all the information about MCP servers via our MCP API.
curl -X GET 'https://glama.ai/api/mcp/v1/servers/risnake/canvas-mcp-server'
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