tla_verify

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

No annotations exist, so description carries full burden. It discloses exhaustive state-space exploration, returns counterexamples, fix suggestions, and a mock option. However, it doesn't mention potential long runtime or resource consumption, which are important for a verification tool.

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 well-structured: one-liner, detailed explanation, return summary, usage guidance, then parameter details. It's slightly long but every sentence adds value. Could be condensed slightly, but overall efficient.

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 (formal verification) and that an output schema exists, the description covers purpose, usage, parameter details, return values, and contrasts with alternatives. No obvious gaps; it is self-contained enough for an AI agent.

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%, but the description provides clear, meaningful semantics for all three parameters: csl_content (complete source code), timeout (TLC subprocess timeout), use_mock (fallback to Python BFS). This fully compensates for the missing schema descriptions.

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 tool performs TLA+ formal verification (TLC model checking) on a CSL policy, and contrasts it with Z3-based verification via verify_policy. The verb 'verifies' and resource 'CSL policy' are specific, differentiating it from siblings.

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 when to use this tool vs. verify_policy: 'Use verify_policy for quick Z3 consistency checks. Use tla_verify when you need exhaustive temporal verification.' No ambiguity.

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