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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, idempotentHint=true, and destructiveHint=false, providing a safe operation profile. The description adds the important behavioral detail that values are never returned, which is not in the annotations. It does not contradict annotations and adds useful context beyond them.

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

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

The description is two sentences, front-loaded with the core purpose and immediately followed by a key behavioral caveat. Every word contributes value, with no redundant or filler content.

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

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

For a simple list tool with one parameter, no output schema, and strong annotations, the description covers the essential context: what is listed, for which app, and the critical limitation that values are not returned. It could mention potential errors or prerequisites, but these are reasonably implied by 'existing app', and the tool is not complex enough to require more detail.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, with the 'app_id' parameter fully described as 'Target app id'. The description does not add any parameter-specific semantics beyond what the schema already provides, so a baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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

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

The description states a specific verb ('List') and resource ('backend secret names') for an existing app, making the tool's purpose unambiguous. It also distinguishes from related sibling tools like set_app_secrets or delete_app_secrets by clarifying that it only returns names, not values.

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

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

The description clearly implies the tool is for retrieving the list of secret names for an app, and explicitly states 'Values are never returned,' which guides the user not to expect secret values. However, it does not name alternatives or provide explicit when-not-to-use scenarios, so it falls short of a 5.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.