update_alerter

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

The description indicates a mutation (update), but fails to disclose behavioral traits like whether the update is partial or full, idempotency, permission requirements, or response format. With no annotations, the description should provide more transparency.

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 a single sentence, concise and to the point, with no wasted words. It efficiently conveys the tool's purpose.

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 an update tool with no output schema and minimal description, important context is missing, such as whether it performs partial updates, required fields beyond alerter_id, and potential side effects. Sibling tools exist but not referenced.

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?

Schema coverage is 100%, so the descriptions in the schema already document each parameter. The tool description does not add extra meaning beyond the schema, e.g., explaining the structure of the 'config' object. Baseline of 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 clearly states it updates the configuration of an existing alerter, using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling tools like create_alerter (create) and delete_alerter (delete), but lacks nuance about what aspects of configuration can be updated.

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?

There is no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives, such as creating a new alerter or deleting one. No context is provided for when not to use it or mention of related tools.

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