List snapshots

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

Annotations already indicate readOnly and idempotent behavior. The description adds the specific API endpoint (GET /disks/{diskId}/snapshots) and explains snapshots are point-in-time copies, providing useful context beyond annotations.

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 short but contains redundancy: 'List snapshots' appears twice. It could be more concise by removing the first sentence or merging it with the second. Information is front-loaded but not efficiently.

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 simple list operation with one required parameter and rich annotations, the description covers the purpose, resource, and API call. It does not mention response format or pagination, but these are not critical given the tool's simplicity and lack of output schema.

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 only parameter, diskId, is described in the schema as 'The ID of the disk'. The description adds no extra meaning, format, or examples beyond this. Schema coverage is 100%, so baseline 3 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 specifies the resource (snapshots) and action (list), and clarifies it's for a persistent disk. However, it begins with a tautological 'List snapshots.' that repeats the title, slightly reducing clarity.

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 usage by requiring a disk ID but does not explicitly state when to use this tool over other list tools or provide alternative approaches. Given many sibling list tools, more guidance would help.

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