Get Blocklist IPs

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true. Description adds only 'current list', which is redundant with 'retrieve'. No disclosure of behavior beyond annotations (e.g., that the list may change, that size parameter limits results, or that results may be paginated). With annotations covering safety, the description contributes little.

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?

Single sentence, no wasted words. Front-loaded with verb and resource. However, it could be slightly more structured with a hint about required parameter or usage context.

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 presence of an output schema (not shown) and clear annotations, the description provides minimal but functional coverage. It omits when to use the tool relative to siblings and does not mention that a blocklist_id is required, which is critical context for a 3-parameter tool with one required field.

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 coverage is 100%, with each parameter described (size maximum, blocklist_id type, workspace_id default). Description does not add any extra meaning or context for parameters. Baseline 3 is appropriate as schema does the heavy lifting.

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?

Description clearly states 'Retrieve the current list of IPs in a blocklist' – a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling 'list-blocklists' (which lists blocklists) and 'list-callback-ips' (which lists callback IPs). However, it does not mention the required blocklist_id parameter explicitly, missing an opportunity to reinforce purpose.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. For example, it doesn't say 'Use this to get IPs for a specific blocklist; for listing all blocklists, use list-blocklists.' The agent must infer usage from sibling names and context.

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