layout_switch

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states the action without mentioning side effects, error behavior, or prerequisites like existence of the layout. The lack of any safety/caveat disclosure makes it insufficient.

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?

A single clear sentence with no redundant words; highly concise and front-loaded.

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 simple one-parameter switch tool, the description is minimal but adequate in isolation. However, given the existence of closely related sibling tools (layout_list, pane_set_layout, tab_switch) and lack of annotations or output schema, it does not fully help an agent understand when to pick this over alternatives or what happens after switching.

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 schema already fully documents the single parameter with 100% coverage; the description's 'by name or ID' adds no additional semantic information beyond the schema.

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 ('Switch to') and resource ('saved chart layout'), clearly indicating it changes the current layout to a saved one. It distinguishes from siblings like layout_list (listing) and pane_set_layout (pane-specific).

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 the tool is used when you want to change to a saved chart layout, but it does not mention alternatives like layout_list for discovering layouts or pane_set_layout for pane layouts, nor any exclusions. No explicit when-to-use guidance is provided.

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