pause_automation
Pause an automation. Existing enrollments freeze in place; no new contacts enroll.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| apiKey | No | Send16 API key (overrides SEND16_API_KEY env var) | |
| automationId | Yes | Automation ID |
Pause an automation. Existing enrollments freeze in place; no new contacts enroll.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| apiKey | No | Send16 API key (overrides SEND16_API_KEY env var) | |
| automationId | Yes | Automation ID |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Describes immediate effects (freeze, no new enrollments) but lacks details on reversibility, permissions, or other side effects. With no annotations, more transparency would be beneficial.
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 sentences, front-loaded with the action, no redundant information. Every word 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 pause action, description covers the primary behavior. Could mention if pausing affects ongoing triggers, but not essential.
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 covers 100% of parameters (apiKey, automationId) with descriptions. The tool description adds no additional parameter meaning beyond the schema, so baseline score of 3 is appropriate.
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?
Description clearly states 'Pause an automation' with specific verb and resource, and further explains behavioral effect: 'Existing enrollments freeze in place; no new contacts enroll.' This distinguishes from siblings like 'activate_automation'.
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?
Implies usage context (pause an automation) but no explicit when-not or alternatives. However, the effect is clear enough to differentiate from similar tools.
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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