closeTab

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

Annotations indicate destructiveHint=true, and the description adds that it prompts to save if dirty, which is important behavioral context not captured elsewhere. However, 'Requires ext.' is vague and leaves ambiguity about what extension is needed.

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 sentences with no unnecessary words. It front-loads the core purpose and provides key behavioral notes. Every sentence adds value.

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 tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description is reasonably complete. It covers the action, parameter, and a notable behavior (dirty prompt). However, it lacks details on edge cases like if the file is not already open or what 'Requires ext.' entails.

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 covers the single parameter with a clear description. The tool description adds 'by file path', which confirms the param's role, but doesn't provide additional semantic detail beyond what the schema already offers. With 100% coverage, 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 clearly states the verb 'close', the resource 'editor tab', and the identifying mechanism 'by file path'. It also notes behavioral details like prompting to save if dirty. This distinguishes it from siblings like closeAllDiffTabs.

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 when needing to close a specific tab and mentions a prerequisite ('Requires ext.'), but does not explicitly compare to alternatives or state when not to use it. Guidance is minimal.

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