alarms_shelve_alarm

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

While the description hints at non-destructive, reversible behavior via 'temporarily suspend,' it does not explain the effects (e.g., notification suppression, persistence) or any other behavioral traits. With no annotations, the description carries the full burden but provides minimal disclosure.

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, concise sentence with no wasted words. However, it could be slightly more informative without losing conciseness, such as adding a brief note on the effect or prerequisites.

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?

Given the 5 parameters and presence of an output schema, the description is too brief to fully inform the agent. It lacks explanation of key concepts like the 'sequence_number' and what 'shelving' means operationally, leaving gaps.

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 schema already documents all parameters. The description adds no additional meaning beyond what is in the schema, achieving the baseline of 3.

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 ('shelve') and the resource ('an alarm'), with the parenthetical 'temporarily suspend' clarifying the nature. It effectively distinguishes from the sibling tool alarms_unshelve_alarm.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like alarms_acknowledge_alarm or alarms_clear_alarm. There is no mention of prerequisites or context, leaving the agent to infer usage.

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