list_channel_uploads

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden. It adds meaningful context beyond the schema: quota cost, completeness of results, ordering, and a contrast with search_videos. It does not mention auth requirements or rate limits, but for a read-oriented list operation the disclosed behaviors are substantive.

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 sentences, front-loads the action and ordering, and devotes the second sentence to high-value usage differentiation. Every clause earns its place with no filler or redundancy.

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 relatively simple list tool with full schema coverage and no output schema, the description provides enough to call it correctly: resource, ordering, parameter semantics via schema, and a usage caveat. It could be more explicit about the exact response shape, but the behavior described is sufficient for correct invocation.

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%, so all four parameters are already documented in the input schema. The description reinforces that the 'channel' parameter refers to the channel whose uploads are listed, but does not add new parameter-level meaning beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 starts with a specific verb and resource: 'List a channel's most recent uploads, newest first.' It clearly distinguishes itself from the sibling search_videos by positioning this as the channel-uploads listing tool, so an agent knows exactly what it does.

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 explicitly says to prefer this tool over search_videos when fetching 'the latest videos from channel X,' and gives concrete reasons: lower quota cost (1 vs 100 units) and complete upload coverage including videos whose titles don't match a keyword. This is direct when-to-use guidance with an alternative named.

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