Get Board Cards

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. 'Get' implies read-only, but the description says 'all cards' while the schema indicates the default filter is 'visible,' which is a meaningful undisclosed behavior. It also does not mention pagination, rate limits, or the effect of the filter parameter on results.

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 front-loaded sentence with no filler or redundancy. It is appropriately sized for a simple read operation.

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?

The schema covers parameters and defaults, and the operation is simple, so the definition is minimally viable. However, there is no usage guidance, no explicit statement of read-only behavior, and no description of the return shape, which leaves some gaps for an agent selecting among many sibling tools.

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 the schema already documents both boardId and filter, including the enum values and default. The description adds no extra meaning beyond naming 'a Trello board,' which is not needed for parameter understanding.

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 and resource: 'Get all cards on a Trello board.' It clearly indicates the operation and resource, and partially distinguishes itself from siblings like get_card and get_member_cards by scoping to a board. However, it does not explicitly contrast with any sibling tool.

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 gives no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as get_card, get_member_cards, or get_board_lists. There is no mention of exclusions, prerequisites, or contexts where another tool would be more appropriate.

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