List podcasts already in the PodLearn library, optionally filtered by category. Returns most-recently-added first. For discovery beyond the library use search_podcasts.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| limit | No | ||
| offset | No | ||
| category | No | Filter by category (e.g. "Technology") |
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the description's behavioral disclosure is not critical. However, it adds the ordering behavior (most-recently-added first), which is helpful. No contradictory information.
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?
Two concise sentences. The first conveys purpose, filter, and ordering. The second provides sibling guidance. Every word serves a purpose; no redundancy.
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-with-filter tool, the description covers the essential aspects: what it lists, optional filter, ordering, and sibling alternative. The schema already defines pagination parameters; extra description is unnecessary. The lack of an output schema is acceptable for a list endpoint.
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?
Only 33% of parameters have schema descriptions (only 'category' has a description). The description mentions 'optionally filtered by category', which adds context to that parameter, but provides no additional meaning for 'limit' or 'offset' beyond their schema definitions (type, default, bounds). With low schema coverage, the description should compensate more.
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 verb 'List', the resource 'podcasts already in the PodLearn library', and key scope details: optional category filter and ordering by most-recently-added. It implicitly distinguishes from the sibling 'search_podcasts' which targets discovery beyond the library.
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 provides an alternative: 'For discovery beyond the library use search_podcasts.' This tells the agent when not to use this tool and directs to the correct sibling, leaving no ambiguity.
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.
Tools are largely distinct, covering separate actions (search, get, list, generate, transcribe, save). The main potential confusion is between list_episodes and list_feed_episodes, but descriptions clearly separate local from external.
All tools follow consistent verb_noun snake_case patterns (get_, list_, search_, generate_, transcribe_, save/remove), with no mixed conventions or unexpected styles.
25 tools is at the high end for a server of this scope. The broad domain justifies many functions, but the count feels heavy and some tools could be consolidated without losing clarity.
Discovery, ingestion, transcription, lesson generation, and user account management are all well covered. Minor gaps exist, such as no way to delete or update lessons beyond save/remove.