magic_8_ball
Ask the Magic 8-Ball.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| question | Yes | Your yes/no question |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| answer | Yes | ||
| question | Yes | ||
| sentiment | Yes |
Ask the Magic 8-Ball.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| question | Yes | Your yes/no question |
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| answer | Yes | ||
| question | Yes | ||
| sentiment | Yes |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
The description provides no behavioral details. It does not mention that the tool returns a random answer, nor does it disclose any side effects, permissions, or limitations. Since no annotations are provided, the description carries the full burden and fails completely.
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 extremely short (one sentence) but under-specified. Conciseness is not achieved when crucial information is missing; thus it fails to earn its place without providing necessary context.
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?
Although an output schema exists (not shown), the description does not explain the random nature or typical responses of the Magic 8-Ball. For a simple random tool, the description should at least hint at the behavior; it is incomplete.
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 single parameter 'question' is already described in the schema as 'Your yes/no question'. Schema coverage is 100%, so the tool description adds no additional semantic value, meeting the baseline of 3.
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 'Ask' and the resource 'Magic 8-Ball', indicating a fortune-telling tool for yes/no questions. However, it does not differentiate from sibling random tools like 'yes_no' or 'flip_coin'.
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?
No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as 'random_boolean' or 'yes_no'. The description lacks any context about typical use cases or exclusions.
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.