set_sleep_timer

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the tool sets a timer to pause playback, but lacks details on permissions needed, whether it overrides existing timers, error conditions (e.g., invalid duration), or response format. For a mutation tool with zero annotation coverage, this is a significant gap in transparency.

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, efficient sentence that directly states the tool's purpose without unnecessary words. It is front-loaded with the core action and outcome, making it easy to parse quickly, with no wasted information.

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 complexity (a mutation with no annotations and no output schema), the description is incomplete. It fails to address key contextual aspects such as what happens if a timer is already set, whether the tool returns confirmation, or error handling for invalid inputs, leaving gaps for an AI agent to understand full behavior.

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 schema description coverage is 100%, with the single parameter 'durationMinutes' fully documented in the schema. The description adds no additional meaning beyond implying the parameter specifies minutes until pausing, which is already covered. With high schema coverage, the baseline score of 3 is appropriate as the description does not compensate but also does not detract.

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 specific action ('Set a sleep timer') and the resource/outcome ('to automatically pause playback after specified minutes'). It distinguishes itself from siblings like 'cancel_sleep_timer' (which stops a timer) and 'control_playback' (which handles general playback control), 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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It does not mention prerequisites (e.g., whether playback must be active), exclusions (e.g., if multiple timers can be set), or comparisons to siblings like 'cancel_sleep_timer' for stopping timers or 'control_playback' for manual pausing, leaving usage context unclear.

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