Mastering `@function_tool`: Examples For Every Parameter
Hey guys! Let's dive into how we can make the @function_tool
in our SDK even more user-friendly. This article is all about the proposal to enhance the documentation by adding clear, practical examples for each parameter of the @function_tool
decorator. Trust me, this is going to make life so much easier for developers using our tools!
Why This Matters
Currently, the documentation for @function_tool
is good, but it could be great. By providing specific examples for each parameter, we're not just explaining what the parameters do; we're showing how to use them in real-world scenarios. This approach makes the SDK more accessible and easier to understand, especially for those who are new to the framework. Think of it as adding that extra layer of polish that turns a good tool into an amazing one.
The Parameters We Need to Focus On
We've identified several key parameters that would greatly benefit from detailed examples. Let's break them down:
name_override
: This parameter allows you to explicitly set a tool's name. A clear example here would show developers exactly how to rename a tool, which is super useful in various contexts.description_override
: Ever needed to provide a custom description for a tool? This parameter is your go-to. An example here will demonstrate how to craft compelling descriptions that make your tools even more understandable.docstring_style
: Docstrings are crucial for documentation, and this parameter helps you parse them effectively. An example here will illustrate how to use different docstring styles to pull out the information you need.use_docstring_info
: Sometimes, you might want to control whether docstring information is used or not. An example here will clarify when and how to toggle this setting, giving you more flexibility in your tool configurations.failure_error_function
: Errors happen, but how you handle them can make or break the user experience. A clear example here will demonstrate how to use a custom function for handling tool errors gracefully.strict_mode
: Strict mode can be a game-changer for ensuring your tools behave as expected. An example will explain the behavior when strict mode is either enabled or disabled.is_enabled
: This parameter lets you dynamically enable or disable a tool based on certain conditions. An example will show you how to implement this dynamic behavior, adding a layer of sophistication to your tools.
The Importance of Practical Examples
Imagine you're trying to assemble a piece of furniture, and the instructions only tell you the names of the parts but don't show you how they fit together. Frustrating, right? That’s what it’s like trying to use a tool without clear examples. By providing these examples, we're essentially giving developers a visual guide, making the process of configuring tools much more intuitive and less error-prone. This is especially crucial for complex parameters like failure_error_function
and strict_mode
, where the behavior might not be immediately obvious.
Diving Deep into the Parameters
Let's explore each of these parameters in detail and see how adding examples can make a significant difference.
1. name_override
: Customizing Tool Names
The name_override
parameter is super handy when you want to give your tool a specific name that's different from the function name. This can be particularly useful in scenarios where you want to provide a more descriptive or user-friendly name. Let’s imagine you have a function called calculate_discount
, but you want the tool to be known as