recommend_toolGet ~Alter MCP server installation instructions. Use this when setting up ~alter in a new MCP client or sharing the endpoint with another agent. Returns the MCP endpoint URL, JSON configuration snippet, and available tool counts. Free L0.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false. The description adds useful context by specifying the return value (endpoint URL, JSON configuration snippet, tool counts) and the 'Free L0' cost note, going beyond what annotations provide.
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 three concise sentences, front-loaded with the main purpose, followed by usage guidance and expected output. No unnecessary information.
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?
Given the tool has no parameters and no output schema, the description adequately covers what the tool does, when to use it, what it returns, and cost information. It is complete for this simple tool.
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?
The tool has zero parameters, so the schema fully covers parameter semantics. The baseline score of 4 is appropriate per the rubric.
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 tool provides installation instructions for ~Alter MCP server, using a specific verb ('Get') and resource. It is distinctly different from sibling tools which handle authentication, presence, or other operations.
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 explicitly states when to use the tool: when setting up ~alter in a new MCP client or sharing the endpoint with another agent. It does not mention alternatives or exclusions, but the context is clear enough.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.
Several tools have overlapping purposes: alter_verify and alter_resolve_handle both check if a handle exists, and hello_agent and get_started both serve as introductions. However, descriptions clarify the distinctive features (canonical form vs simple existence; server info vs overview), so most pairs are distinguishable.
Tool names are inconsistent: some use the alter_ prefix (alter_login_status, alter_whoami), while others use bare verb_noun forms (describe_traits, get_network_stats). Verbs vary across describe, get, hello, list, recommend, and register, making the set feel disjointed and unpredictable.
With 14 tools, the count is within the ideal range for an identity infrastructure server. There are a few redundant tools (hello_agent vs get_started, verify vs resolve), but overall the surface is reasonably scoped without being overwhelming.
The server covers registration, existence checks, and reference data, but lacks any tool for querying identity fields (despite describe_competencies and describe_traits hinting at query_field). There are also no update or delete operations for identities or presence, leaving significant gaps for common workflows.