extract_metadata

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It correctly indicates that the tool computes multiple hash types and detects MIME-type masquerading—both are non-obvious and valuable. However, it does not mention whether the tool modifies the file, requires network access, or what happens if the file is missing. The absence of annotations means the bar is higher, and this description just meets the minimum by covering key side effects.

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, information-dense sentence that front-loads the core action ('Extracts file metadata') and then lists specific capabilities (hash types, masquerading detection). No extraneous words or redundancy exist. Every phrase adds value.

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?

Given the tool's complexity (multiple hash computations, masquerading detection) and that an output schema exists, the description provides an overview but omits important details like whether hashes are returned as hex strings, what MIME-type detection criteria are used, or the behavior for invalid paths. With no annotations, the description carries more burden and is only partially complete.

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 coverage is 0%, meaning neither parameter has a description in the schema. The tool description mentions 'file_path' indirectly by specifying 'Extracts file metadata', but it does not explain the 'case_id' parameter at all. Two out of two parameters lack documentation, and the description adds no value for 'case_id'. The baseline expectation is higher given zero schema coverage, so this is insufficient.

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 clearly identifies the tool's purpose: extracting file metadata and computing cryptographic hashes. It specifies the resources (file metadata, hashes) and the action (extracts), and the mention of MIME-type masquerading detection adds a distinguishing feature. However, it lacks explicit differentiation from sibling tools like 'extract_strings', which might also work on files, leaving some ambiguity.

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 like 'extract_strings' or 'scan_iocs'. It does not mention prerequisites (e.g., file must exist on disk), error scenarios (e.g., unsupported file types), or when it is inappropriate to use. The context signals include sibling names, but the description itself fails to help the agent choose correctly.

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