Dead-man's switch: heartbeat to keep the switch from firing. Send { id, token }. [x402 paid tool — price $0.003; POST /api/deadman/ping]
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| id | Yes | Switch id | |
| token | Yes | Your secret token |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description discloses the pricing ($0.003) and HTTP method (POST), but does not cover error conditions, rate limits, or what happens if the switch fires. With no annotations, this leaves gaps.
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 a single efficient sentence plus a bracketed note, front-loading the purpose with no wasted words.
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 heartbeat ping with 2 required params and no output schema, the description covers the core behavior. However, it lacks guidance on the required ping interval to prevent firing.
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 coverage is 100% with descriptions for both parameters ('Switch id' and 'Your secret token'). The description adds no meaning beyond what the schema already provides.
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 clearly states it sends a heartbeat to keep a deadman's switch from firing, with a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from the sibling 'deadman_register' which likely handles registration.
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 implies usage after registration but provides no explicit guidance on when to use or when not to use this tool versus alternatives. No exclusion criteria are mentioned.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
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