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Nist Control Family

nist_control_family
Read-onlyIdempotent

List every NIST control in a family — the FedRAMP/800-53 control-family baseline. Use for "list all NIST access control controls", "NIST 800-53 AC family", "what controls are in identification and authentication", "NIST system and communications protection family". Input a family code ("AC", "IA", "SC", "AU", "SI", …) or a family name ("access control"). Returns the family title plus every control id + title (including enhancements). Source: SP 800-53 Rev 5 (+ SP 800-171 Rev 3). Examples: {"family":"AC"}, {"family":"identification and authentication"}, {"family":"SC"}.

Input Schema

NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
familyYesFamily code ("AC","IA","SC",…) or name ("access control").

Schema Changelog

Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.

  1. Changed1 schema field changed
    • addedInput schema / examples
      Added value: +[
      +  {
      +    "family": "AC"
      +  },
      +  {
      +    "family": "identification and authentication"
      +  }
      +]
  2. First observed

TDQS

A4.4/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare safe read-only, idempotent, non-destructive behavior. Description adds that it returns family title plus every control id+title including enhancements, but does not mention any edge cases like pagination or rate limits. Still strong.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness4/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Description is somewhat lengthy but well-structured with examples and explicit usage guidance. Every sentence adds value, though could be slightly more concise.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given the simple input schema (1 parameter, no output schema) and comprehensive annotations, the description covers purpose, usage, and output format completely. No gaps.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema coverage is 100% and already describes the parameter. Description adds examples and clarifies acceptable formats (codes or names), which provides marginal added value beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description uses specific verb 'list' and resource 'NIST control family', and provides multiple example queries that clearly distinguish it from siblings like 'nist_control' and 'nist_control_search'.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines5/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly says 'Use for' with example queries, and details valid inputs (family code or name) with examples. No ambiguity about when to use this tool.

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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