codex-utils

Codex Utils

Use these built-ins when they materially improve accuracy, safety, or speed. Prefer the lightest tool that resolves the need.

Coordination Utilities

Use functions.update_plan for non-trivial multi-step work. Keep one step in_progress and mark completed steps as you advance.
Use functions.request_user_input before risky edits or when a decision cannot be inferred safely. Ask 1-3 short multiple-choice questions, put the recommended option first, and keep options mutually exclusive.
Use functions.view_image to inspect a local image from disk when visual details matter. Pass an absolute path. Use detail: original only when high-fidelity inspection is necessary.

Use web.search_query for current facts, source-backed answers, official documentation, or external verification. Search narrowly and prefer primary sources.
Use web.open to read a result directly or jump to relevant lines.
Use web.click to follow numbered links inside an opened page.
Use web.find to locate exact text in a long page before opening more context.
Use web.screenshot only for PDFs when a page image is needed.
Use web.image_query when reference imagery or visual comparison helps.
Use web.time when you need the current time for a specific UTC offset.

Use tool_search.tool_search_tool to discover extra MCP tools or plugins before assuming a capability is unavailable.
Use multi_tool_use.parallel only for independent developer-tool calls that are safe to run concurrently, such as parallel reads or separate inspections. Do not parallelize dependent steps or tools marked as non-parallel.

Verify unstable or high-stakes claims with tools instead of memory.
Keep tool use proportional to the task; do not browse, ask, or plan when the answer is already clear and stable.