Token efficiency starts with smaller tool results

Token efficiency for coding agents depends on returning tool results at the smallest scope that still supports the next correct action, rather than sending broad repository searches, full conversations, or unbounded logs that increase context overhead. The guidance recommends starting with relevant files, symbols, repositories, or time windows, expanding only when specific questions remain, and preserving essential evidence such as commands, errors, affected files, file state, and prior decisions. Factory’s MCP integration and project instructions can help constrain access to needed external data and document important code locations and validation commands. Citing Anthropic and Factory research, the piece notes that compression and smaller outputs should be evaluated by retained context quality and total task cost through accepted completion, including retries, worker activity, recovery calls, validation, elapsed time, and reviewer intervention. It recommends controlled experiments that modify one recurring tool call or instruction while holding models and acceptance tests constant, with token counts kept distinct from billed cost.

Use this post, company, and trend context to find content marketing opportunities, perform competitive analysis, or address product feature gaps via the Plushcap MCP server or the Plushcap API.