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List Canvases

list_canvases
Read-onlyIdempotent

Scans the entire Obsidian vault to list all canvas files (.canvas) with their relative paths and total count, enabling discovery before using canvas editing tools.

Instructions

Enumerate every Obsidian canvas file (.canvas) anywhere in the vault, returning a numbered list of relative paths and the total count. Takes no parameters — scans the entire vault. Use to discover available canvases before calling read_canvas, add_canvas_node, or add_canvas_edge.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault

No arguments

Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, idempotentHint=true, openWorldHint=false. The description adds that it scans entire vault and takes no parameters, but no new behavioral traits beyond annotations.

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?

Two sentences, efficient, front-loaded with key information, no waste.

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

Completeness5/5

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

Given no parameters and no output schema, the description is complete: it specifies scope, return type, and usage context.

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

Parameters4/5

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

No parameters, baseline 4 per guidelines. The description correctly states 'Takes no parameters'.

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 it enumerates Obsidian canvas files, returns a numbered list of relative paths and total count, and distinguishes from sibling tools by noting it scans the entire vault and takes no parameters.

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

Usage Guidelines5/5

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

Explicitly says to use to discover available canvases before calling read_canvas, add_canvas_node, or add_canvas_edge, providing clear context and alternatives.

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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