get_device_alarms

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

There are no annotations, so the description must carry the behavioral burden. It explicitly says the tool 'Returns all configured alarms with their schedules, sounds, and enabled status,' which discloses the read-only nature and expected result content. The verb 'Get' further signals a non-destructive operation.

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 two concise sentences with no filler. The primary action and scope are front-loaded, and the second sentence adds only meaningful detail about the returned alarm properties.

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?

For a zero-parameter read-only tool with an output schema available, the description is complete. It states what the tool does, what it returns, and the scope. There are no missing prerequisites, parameters, or side-effect concerns to disclose.

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 tool takes zero parameters, so the description does not need to explain parameters. The scope 'from all Garmin devices' usefully confirms that no device filter is required, which aligns with the empty 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 clearly states the verb ('Get'), the resource ('alarms'), and the scope ('from all Garmin devices'). The second sentence further specifies what the return contains: schedules, sounds, and enabled status. No sibling tool covers alarms, so there is no ambiguity with nearby tools.

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 phrase 'from all Garmin devices' gives clear context that this tool aggregates across devices and needs no device selection. It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusions, but no sibling tool offers alarm retrieval, so the usage context is sufficiently clear.

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