update_file_contents

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

Description only says 'update contents', which is consistent with idempotentHint but offers no additional behavioral details (e.g., overwrites entire file, permissions needed). Annotations provide minimal context, so description should carry burden but fails.

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?

Extremely concise (one sentence), which is good but at the cost of missing useful content. No wasted words.

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 tool's complexity (nested schema) and many siblings, the description is insufficient. No output schema, no result details, and no guidance on when to choose this tool.

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 description coverage is low (0% top-level), and the description adds no meaning beyond what the nested schema already provides. Lacks guidance on parameter usage or formatting.

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 (update) and resource (contents of a file), distinguishing it from siblings like 'create_file' or 'patch_file'. However, it lacks specifics like file type or scope.

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 vs alternatives (e.g., patch_file for partial updates, update_file_name for rename). Missing prerequisites or context.

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