list_ssl_certificates

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It accurately indicates a read-only operation ('List all installed SSL certificates') without side effects, but it does not mention return format, pagination, or any potential limitations. For a simple list operation this is minimally adequate, though it lacks richer behavioral context.

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 a single, succinct sentence with no redundant words. It fully conveys the tool's purpose without wasting space, earning a perfect score for conciseness and structure.

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?

Given the tool's simplicity (no parameters, no output schema), the description is largely complete. It clearly states what the tool does. One could argue that mentioning the returned certificate details would enhance completeness, but for a basic list operation this is sufficient.

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 tool has zero parameters, and the schema covers 100% of nothing, so there is no parameter information to provide. The baseline for a parameterless tool is 4, and the description does not need to compensate for missing parameter details.

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' and the resource 'all installed SSL certificates', which is specific and distinguishes it from sibling tools like list_ssl_keys (which lists keys) and get_ssl_status (which shows status). The phrase 'all installed' adds scope, making the purpose unambiguous.

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?

The description implicitly conveys its usage: call this tool when you need to list installed SSL certificates. However, it provides no explicit guidance on when to use this versus alternatives (e.g., list_ssl_keys, get_ssl_status), and there are no stated exclusions or prerequisites.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.