list_prompts

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

With no annotations provided, the description must carry the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states that the tool returns JSON metadata, which is useful, but it does not explicitly state that this is a read-only operation with no side effects, nor does it mention any limitations like pagination. For a simple list operation, this is adequate but not rich.

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 terse sentences: the first delivers the primary action, the second clarifies the return format. Every word earns its place, with no redundancy or irrelevant detail.

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 tool with an existing output schema, the description covers the essential purpose and return type. It is complete, but could be slightly more helpful by explicitly connecting to get_prompt for retrieving specific prompts, which would aid discoverability.

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 zero parameters, so the description does not need to explain parameter meaning. The description adds a small amount of value by mentioning that the output includes 'optional arguments', but per the guideline, 0 params warrants a baseline score of 4.

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 ('List') and the resource ('all available prompts'), making the purpose unambiguous. It also distinguishes from siblings like list_resources by specifying prompts, and from get_prompt by listing rather than retrieving a specific prompt.

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 the tool: to enumerate all available prompts. It does not explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions, but the context is clear for a list operation with no parameters. A brief note on using it before get_prompt would elevate this to a 5.

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