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

With no annotations, the description carries the transparency burden. It discloses that auth is required and states the side effect of public visibility. However, it omits details like what happens if the listing is already live, listing status prerequisites, or error behaviors. This is average but not comprehensive.

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 sentence that is front-loaded with the action and effect. No redundant or unnecessary words; every phrase adds value.

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 single-parameter tool, the description covers the core behavior, requirement (auth), and effect. No output schema exists, so omitting return details is acceptable. It lacks some edge-case explanation, but overall is suitably complete for its complexity.

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 has one parameter with no description, and the description adds meaning by specifying the listing must be one you own. This directly informs the listing_id parameter's purpose and constraint, going beyond the schema's bare type definition.

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 the action: setting a listing to 'live' status, with the effect of making it publicly visible. It specifies the resource (listing) and distinguishes from siblings like create_listing or deploy_listing by focusing on the status transition.

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?

It provides clear context for when to use: when you own a listing and want to make it live. It implies prerequisites (ownership, auth) but does not explicitly contrast with alternatives or state when not to use. Still, the context is strong enough for an agent to infer appropriate use.

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