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container_stop

Stop a Docker container by its ID or name, with an optional timeout for graceful shutdown before force-killing.

Instructions

Stop a container.

args: id_or_name - The container id or name stop_timeout_seconds - Seconds to wait for graceful stop before SIGKILL returns: dict - The container's attrs after stop

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
id_or_nameYes
stop_timeout_secondsNo
Behavior3/5

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

Annotations indicate this is a write operation (readOnlyHint false) and not destructive (destructiveHint false). The description adds that the container's attrs are returned after stop, but does not describe side effects or prerequisites (e.g., container must be running).

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is succinct with 5 lines, starting with the primary action, followed by parameter explanations and return value. No wasted words.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

Given no output schema, the description mentions the return type. It could mention that the container must be running, but for a simple stop operation it is adequately complete.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

The description explains both parameters: id_or_name as container identifier, stop_timeout_seconds as graceful stop timeout before SIGKILL. This provides meaning beyond the schema's type/default definitions.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states 'Stop a container' with a specific verb and resource, distinguishing it from sibling tools like 'container_kill' and 'container_pause'.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines3/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description mentions the timeout parameter implying graceful stop vs forced kill, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'container_kill' or 'container_restart'.

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

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