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ttpears

GitLab MCP Server

by ttpears

Browse Repository

browse_repository
Read-onlyIdempotent

Explore a GitLab repository's files and folders to understand its codebase structure. Specify project path, directory, and Git reference.

Instructions

Browse repository files and folders - essential for exploring codebase structure

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
projectPathYesFull path of the project (e.g., "group/project-name")
pathNoDirectory path to browse (empty for root)
refNoGit reference (branch, tag, or commit SHA)HEAD
userCredentialsNoYour GitLab credentials (optional — falls back to the configured env token if not provided)
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, idempotentHint=true. The description adds minimal behavioral insight beyond the obvious 'browse' action, which is consistent and not contradictory.

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?

The description is a single sentence with no filler, front-loading the essential purpose. Every word earns its place.

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 simplicity, the description combined with annotations and schema is largely complete. It lacks mention of return format or pagination, but these are standard for browsing tools and likely inferable.

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 description coverage is 100%, so the schema adequately documents all 4 parameters. The tool description adds no extra meaning beyond what the schema provides.

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 uses the specific verb 'browse' and resource 'repository files and folders', clearly distinguishing it from sibling tools like get_file_content which retrieves file content.

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

Usage Guidelines3/5

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

The description states it is 'essential for exploring codebase structure', implying usage context, but does not explicitly mention when not to use it or provide alternative tool names.

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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