Optimize utils for large datasets

**Problem**
When working with models, the error messages could be more descriptive.

**Suggestion**
Improve error handling and add detailed error messages.

**Context**
This would help with debugging and maintenance.

No file, test, or entry point is named in the issue. Start by locating the model utilities and current error handling, then clarify the affected error cases with maintainers. Done means the agreed messages are more descriptive and the relevant cases are covered by tests.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.