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Batch Update Doc

batch_update_doc
Destructive

Combine multiple Google Docs edits—text, formatting, tables, headers—into a single atomic batch update to ensure consistency and reduce API calls.

Instructions

Executes multiple low-level document operations in a single atomic batch update.

For normal header/footer text, prefer update_doc_headers_footers. Only use create_header_footer here for advanced section-break layouts.

RECOMMENDED WORKFLOW FOR BUILDING DOCUMENTS:

To avoid index calculation errors, build documents in phases:

PHASE 1 - INSERT ALL CONTENT (use end_of_segment=true, no index math): Append text, section breaks, and page breaks sequentially. Each operation appends to the end of the body. No index needed. Example batch: [ {"type": "insert_text", "end_of_segment": true, "text": "Report Title\n"}, {"type": "insert_text", "end_of_segment": true, "text": "\nExecutive Summary\n"}, {"type": "insert_text", "end_of_segment": true, "text": "Revenue grew 15%.\n"}, {"type": "insert_section_break", "end_of_segment": true, "section_type": "NEXT_PAGE"}, {"type": "insert_text", "end_of_segment": true, "text": "Detailed Analysis\n"} ]

PHASE 2 - CREATE HEADERS/FOOTERS (if needed): For normal header/footer text, use update_doc_headers_footers (it auto-creates if missing and writes the content for you). Only include create_header_footer operations in a batch when you are intentionally managing advanced section-break-specific layouts.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
user_google_emailYesUser's Google email address
document_idYesID of the document to update
operationsYesList of operation dicts. Each operation MUST have a 'type' field. All operations accept an optional 'tab_id' to target a specific tab.

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
resultYes
Behavior4/5

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

The description discloses atomic batch behavior and warns about index calculation errors, recommending end_of_segment=true. It adds context beyond annotations (destructiveHint=true) by explaining how to avoid pitfalls. It could be more explicit about failure handling but is generally good.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness3/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is lengthy and includes a detailed recommended workflow with examples. While well-structured with sections and bold headings, it could be more concise. The information is valuable but verbose, earning a mid-score.

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 tool's complexity (multiple operation types) and the presence of annotations and an output schema, the description covers essential aspects: atomicity, alternative tools, and a workflow to avoid errors. It is complete enough for an agent to use effectively.

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%, so the schema already documents all parameters. The description provides additional context on usage patterns (e.g., end_of_segment vs index) and includes example operations, which adds value but does not systematically describe each parameter beyond the schema.

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 executes multiple low-level document operations in a single atomic batch update. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like update_doc_headers_footers by specifying when to use each, providing a specific verb ('batch update') and resource ('doc').

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?

The description explicitly guides when to use this tool versus alternatives, e.g., 'For normal header/footer text, prefer update_doc_headers_footers. Only use create_header_footer here for advanced section-break layouts.' It also provides a detailed recommended workflow with phases to avoid index calculation errors.

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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