get_state

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the description's 'Read' adds no new safety information. It contributes only the 'bounded' qualifier, hinting at limits without explaining staleness, rate limits, or output behavior. It is consistent with annotations, so no contradiction.

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?

One concise sentence that front-loads the core action and target. No wasted words, but it sacrifices valuable information that could be included without structural bloat.

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?

With three parameters and zero schema coverage, the description is under-specified. It does not address the optional parameters, the meaning of 'bounded', or when to choose this tool over its many siblings. The output schema helps for return values, but the description alone leaves important 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 for the three parameters. It mentions 'selected devices', giving some meaning to the required 'devices' parameter, but it does not explain 'allow_stale' or 'capabilities', leaving those semantics entirely unspecified.

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 'Read' with a resource 'bounded semantic state snapshots' and a scope 'selected devices'. It clearly identifies the operation and object, and the phrase distinguishes it from siblings like get_energy_context or discover_devices, though not explicitly.

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 on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as get_energy_context or validate_command. The description does not specify prerequisites, use cases, or exclusions, leaving the agent to infer from the tool name alone.

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