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portal_debug_resolve_time_to_block

Convert any timestamp into the nearest indexed block or slot for debugging time windows or building manual block-range queries.

Instructions

ADVANCED: Resolve a timestamp to the nearest indexed block or slot.

COMMON USER ASKS:

  • Resolve one hour ago on Base

  • Resolve an older time on Polkadot

WHEN TO USE:

  • You are debugging timestamp windows or building a manual block-range query.

  • You want to inspect exact versus estimated timestamp-to-block resolution.

DON'T USE:

  • You just want to query by time; most public tools already accept natural timestamps directly.

EXAMPLES:

  • Resolve one hour ago on Base: {"network":"base-mainnet","timestamp":"1h ago"}

  • Resolve an older time on Polkadot: {"network":"polkadot","timestamp":"2026-04-08T12:00:00Z"}

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
networkYesNetwork name or alias
timestampYesUnix seconds, Unix milliseconds, ISO datetime, or relative input like "1h ago"
Behavior4/5

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It mentions 'nearest indexed block or slot', implying approximate matching, and gives input examples. Could disclose more about out-of-range timestamps or limitations, but sufficient for a debug tool.

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?

Well-structured with labeled sections (ADVANCED, COMMON USER ASKS, WHEN TO USE, DON'T USE, EXAMPLES). Each sentence earns its place; no fluff. Front-loaded with purpose.

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

Completeness4/5

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

Given the simple tool (2 params, no output schema, no annotations), the description covers purpose, usage, and examples comprehensively. Missing details on return value format, but acceptable for a debug tool. Leaves little ambiguity.

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?

Schema coverage is 100% with both parameters fully described. The description adds example values and clarifies that timestamp accepts various formats, but this is already in the schema. Baseline 3 applies due to high coverage; examples add marginal value.

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 'Resolve a timestamp to the nearest indexed block or slot', using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling tools like portal_debug_query_blocks by focusing on time-to-block resolution.

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?

Contains explicit 'WHEN TO USE' and 'DON'T USE' sections with clear context (debugging, building manual queries) and alternatives (other tools accept timestamps directly). Examples reinforce proper 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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