sort_palette

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It discloses that indexed sprites remap pixel indices to preserve appearance, but omits whether the tool modifies the sprite permanently, errors for non-indexed modes, or destructive effects beyond sorting.

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 sentences: first covers purpose and options, second explains indexed sprite handling. No unnecessary words, and the main function is front-loaded.

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?

Descriptions is adequate for a simple tool but lacks details on return value, prerequisites (e.g., sprite must be open), behavior with non-indexed color modes, and error handling. Missing 'reverse' parameter explanation.

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 description explains the 'by' parameter (hue, luminance, etc.) and its default, and implies filename from context, but does not mention the 'reverse' parameter at all, leaving its meaning unclear despite 0% schema description coverage.

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 tool sorts a palette by hue, luminance, saturation, or value, with luminance as default. It distinguishes from siblings like set_palette or get_palette by focusing on reordering, not setting or retrieving.

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 for sorting palette colors and mentions default behavior, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like set_palette or set_palette_color, nor when not to use it.

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