startDebugging

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It omits side effects, prerequisites (e.g., .vscode/launch.json must exist), or what happens when 'configName' is invalid. This lack of transparency reduces the score.

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 extremely concise—two sentences—with no filler. Every word adds value, making it efficient for an AI agent to parse.

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 adequate but not exhaustive. It lacks mention of return values (e.g., success/failure) or additional behavioral context that would fully inform an AI agent.

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%, and the description adds minimal value beyond the schema definition. The description says 'Pass configName to select configuration', which largely mirrors the schema's 'Name of the launch configuration to use'. Baseline score 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?

Description explicitly states 'Start debug session from .vscode/launch.json', which clearly identifies both the action and the specific resource. It distinguishes the tool from siblings like 'stopDebugging' and 'evaluateInDebugger'.

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?

Description implies passing 'configName' to select configuration, but does not provide explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus other debug-related siblings like 'setDebugBreakpoints' or 'evaluateInDebugger'. No exclusions or alternative suggestions are given.

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