update_list

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of behavior disclosure. It reveals that the tool can update existing items and remove items via a _destroy flag, which goes beyond the simple 'Update' in the name. However, it omits potential side effects, permission requirements, or what happens if id is omitted for items. It's a minimally transparent description.

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 two short sentences: 'Update a List. Include item id to update existing items; set _destroy: true to remove items.' Every word earns its place, and the most important verb ('Update') is front-loaded. No fluff.

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 update tool with only 3 parameters, the description covers the core behaviors: renaming a list and managing its items via id and _destroy. However, it doesn't fully explain the structure of list_items_attributes (e.g., whether omitting id creates new items, or if _destroy requires an id) or any prerequisites. It's adequate but has clear gaps.

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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It explains the meaning of list_items_attributes by describing the use of item id and _destroy, which adds value beyond the raw schema. However, it does not clarify the 'name' parameter's purpose (likely the list name), leaving a gap in parameter understanding.

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 states 'Update a List', which is a clear verb-resource pairing. It also mentions item-specific operations, distinguishing it from create_list and delete_list siblings. However, it doesn't explicitly contrast with alternatives, so it just misses a 5.

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 gives direct guidance on how to handle list items: include item id for updates and set _destroy: true for removal. This implies the tool is used for partial updates, but it doesn't state when to prefer update_list over create_list or delete_list. There are no explicit exclusions or alternative suggestions.

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