ibmcloud_regions

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

There are no annotations, so the description fully bears the burden of behavioral disclosure. 'List' clearly implies a read-only, non-destructive operation, but the description does not mention authentication requirements, return format, or any other behavioral characteristics. It is adequate but minimal.

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, short sentence that is completely front-loaded with the essential purpose. Every word earns its place, and there is no wasted content.

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 zero-parameter, no-output-schema tool, the description conveys the core action and result ('List... regions') sufficiently. It lacks mention of authentication prerequisites or the exact structure of the returned data, but the simplicity of the operation means this is acceptable. A slightly richer description might include 'no login required' or 'returns region IDs and names'.

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 input schema has zero parameters, so the schema fully covers all parameter information. The baseline for 0 parameters is 4, and the description does not need to add parameter details since there are none.

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 a specific verb ('List') and a clear resource ('available IBM Cloud regions'), making the tool's purpose immediately obvious. It is distinct from sibling tools like ibmcloud_ks_zones, which focus on zones rather than regions.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives, nor are there any prerequisites or context mentioned. While the tool is simple, the description lacks any explicit usage direction, such as whether login is required or when to prefer this over similar list commands.

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