reply_in_channel

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

Discloses that the reply goes out as the user and is visible to the channel, and that it returns the posted reply. No annotations provided, so description carries burden well.

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 with no redundancy; action is front-loaded and prerequisite hints follow efficiently.

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 no output schema, description includes return behavior. All required parameters are explained with source guidance, making the tool self-contained for use.

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 all parameter descriptions at 100%, but the description adds value by telling where to obtain channel_id and parent_id, and reiterates the visibility of body text.

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 the tool replies in a thread under a specific message in a Comms channel, including visibility and authorship. Distinguishes from siblings like post_to_channel and reply_to_conversation.

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 tells agent to resolve channel_id via list_channels and parent_id via read_channel, providing clear prerequisites. No when-not guidance but sufficient for the tool.

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