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zhiwei5576

Excel MCP Server

by zhiwei5576

readSheetData

Reads data from all sheets in an Excel file, using a specified header row for field names and a starting row for data.

Instructions

Get data from all sheets in the Excel file

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
fileAbsolutePathYesThe absolute path of the Excel file
headerRowNoThe row number to use as field names (default: 1)
dataStartRowNoThe row number to start reading data from (default: 2)
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations provided, the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states the action ('get data') without mentioning if the tool has side effects, authentication needs, or return format. This is insufficient for a tool that reads file data.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

The description is a single sentence, concise and to the point. While it lacks structure, it is appropriately sized for a simple tool.

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

Completeness2/5

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

The tool has no output schema, so the description should explain what 'get data' means (e.g., row arrays, JSON). It does not, leaving the agent without key context about return format or error handling.

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?

The input schema covers 100% of parameters with descriptions, so the description does not need to add much. However, it offers no additional context beyond 'get data from all sheets', which is baseline for high coverage.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool gets data from all sheets in an Excel file. It implicitly distinguishes from the sibling 'readDataBySheetName' by using 'all sheets', but could be more explicit.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

The description provides no guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives. For example, it doesn't contrast with 'readDataBySheetName' for reading a specific sheet, nor does it mention prerequisites like file access.

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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