Set Mute

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full transparency burden. It explains the exact behavior for on=true and on=false and states that it returns the consolidated state after the command. This is good behavioral disclosure for a simple one-parameter tool, though it does not mention edge cases like idempotency or device power state.

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 short sentences with no filler. The first sentence states the purpose, and the second explains the parameter and return behavior, front-loading the most 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?

For a one-boolean-parameter tool with an output schema, the description is nearly complete: it explains purpose, parameter semantics, and the return value. It lacks explicit 'when to use' context, but that is a minor gap given how straightforward the tool is.

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 schema only defines a boolean named 'on' with no description coverage. The tool description compensates fully by explicitly stating that on=true cuts sound and on=false restores it, making the parameter's meaning unambiguous.

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 action: activating or deactivating mute mode, with a specific verb and resource. It is easily distinguishable from the sibling volume control tool, even though it does not explicitly name an alternative.

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 intended usage is implied by the verb and the boolean parameter: use this when you want to mute or unmute audio. However, there is no explicit guidance about when not to use it or how it differs from set_volume or set_power.

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