asn1-mcp

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

With no annotations, the description usefully discloses the return payload (compilation status, error messages, generated source files), which is real behavioral value. It omits operational traits: whether compilation happens remotely, whether an asn1.io account/user identity is required (implied by userId), failure behavior, or side effects like files being persisted.

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?

Three sentences, front-loaded with the core action, then triggers, then return shape. No filler or restated title; every sentence carries 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?

For a 5-parameter tool with no annotations and no output schema, the description covers both inputs (via the fully documented schema) and outputs (status, errors, files). The remaining gap is the operational context around the asn1.io account and how generated files are delivered.

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%, so every parameter including codec defaults, fileName conventions, and targetLanguage values is already documented. The description adds no parameter meaning beyond the schema, so the baseline 3 applies.

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?

States a specific verb ('Compiles') and resource ('ASN.1 schema definitions into executable source code'), and enumerates the codec families (DER, PER, UPER, BER). An agent can immediately tell what the tool produces without opening the schema.

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?

Explicitly lists the triggering user requests (generate code, compile an ASN.1 schema, create a codec), which is clear context for when to call. There are no sibling tools and no when-not-to-use cases, so it stops 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.