alexa_list_groupsRetrieve all smart home groups and rooms configured in Alexa, showing which devices belong to each group. Use it to map devices to their assigned rooms.
List all smart home groups/rooms configured in Alexa. Shows which devices are assigned to each group.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.2.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of disclosing behavior. It only states the basic function, omitting details like read-only nature, required permissions, or side effects, which are critical for a list tool.
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?
Two concise sentences, each earning its place. No fluff, no redundancy. The description is optimally brief while conveying essential information.
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 simplicity (zero parameters, no output schema), the description covers the main purpose. It could mention the output format or absence of filtering, but overall it is sufficiently complete for its low complexity.
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 has no parameters, and schema coverage is 100%. The description does not need to add parameter semantics, so a baseline of 4 is appropriate.
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 explicitly states the tool lists all smart home groups/rooms and shows device assignments, using a specific verb and resource. It clearly distinguishes from sibling tools like alexa_list_devices and alexa_list_smarthome_devices.
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 implies when to use (to see groups and device assignments) but provides no explicit guidance on alternatives or when not to use. The context from sibling names helps, but the description itself lacks this clarity.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.