layout_align

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

With no annotations present, the description carries the burden. 'Distribute nodes' conveys that positions change, and it states axis and spacing defaults, but it does not address reversibility, side effects on existing positions, or whether the operation is aligned to a grid/sequence. It is moderately transparent but leaves some behavioral gaps.

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 text is a single focused sentence followed by a compact parameter list. The action and defaults are front-loaded inhering the natural language sentence; no redundant fluff.

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?

Provides enough to invoke the tool with paths and defaults, but does not state what happens when start_x/start_y are omitted, whether existing positions are overwritten, or what the tool returns. These are not critical gaps for a simple layout operation, but they leave room for agent uncertainty.

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 description adds meaning to every parameter: paths are the nodes to distribute, axis has a default between horizontal/vertical, spacing has a default of 200, and start_x/start_y define the origin. This fully complements the input 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 states a specific verb and resource: 'Distribute nodes along a horizontal or vertical axis.' This clearly identifies what the tool does. However, it does not explicitly distinguish itself from the closely related sibling layout_set_position, leaving some differentiation to inference.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as layout_set_position, nor does it mention prerequisites (e.g., node selection, current layout state). An agent must infer the intended invocation context from the name and sibling list.

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