Delete an Outlook email by message ID, either moving it to Deleted Items or permanently deleting it.
Delete an email (move to Deleted Items or permanently delete)
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| messageId | Yes | The ID of the email to delete | |
| permanentDelete | No | Whether to permanently delete (true) or move to Deleted Items (false) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v2.0.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Discloses the behavioral choice between move to Deleted Items and permanent deletion via the permanentDelete parameter. However, no annotation provided and description lacks details on irreversibility, permissions, or side effects.
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?
Single sentence efficiently conveys the action and two modes. No unnecessary words, front-loaded with the verb and resource.
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?
Minimal for a simple delete tool with 2 parameters and no output schema. Lacks details on return value, confirmation, or effect on attachments, but sufficient for straightforward use.
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 baseline 3 is appropriate. The description adds no additional insight beyond what the schema already explains for messageId and permanentDelete.
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 clearly states the tool deletes an email, with explicit options to move to Deleted Items or permanently delete. It distinguishes from sibling tools like archive or move.
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 on when to use this tool vs alternatives such as archive or move. Does not mention scenarios where use is inappropriate.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.