modal_env_list

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

With no annotations provided, the description must carry full behavioral disclosure. It only states a read-only list operation without mentioning the effect of the 'env' parameter, return format, pagination, or permissions. The phrase 'list all environments' conflicts with the existence of an optional 'env' parameter, leaving ambiguity.

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 clear sentence with no wasted words. It is appropriately sized for a simple list operation and is immediately understandable.

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?

The tool has no output schema, no annotations, and one optional parameter, so the description needs to explain the parameter's purpose. It does not, leaving the agent unsure whether 'all environments' is unconditional or can be filtered by 'env'. Lacks minimal behavioral context for a tool with even a single parameter.

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 100% (the only parameter 'env' has a description), so the baseline is 3. However, the description adds no meaning to this parameter, and its 'all environments' wording potentially contradicts a filtering behavior. The schema already documents the parameter, but the description does not clarify its role.

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 uses the specific verb 'List', names the resource 'environments', and scopes it to 'current workspace'. This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like modal_env_create, modal_env_delete, and modal_env_update.

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 implies a simple listing operation but provides no explicit when-to-use or alternative guidance. It does not explain when to use this over other environment tools, nor does it clarify the optional 'env' parameter's role in filtering or context.

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