clio_create_custom_action

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden of disclosing behavioral traits. It only states that the tool routes through a specific endpoint, but does not indicate whether the operation is destructive, what scopes or permissions are required, or what side effects occur.

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 short and concise, but the structure is poor. It begins with a tautological restatement of the name followed by routing details, failing to front-load the core purpose. It could be more informative without adding length.

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?

Although an output schema exists, the description lacks essential context for a creation tool. It does not explain what a custom action is, how it behaves, or how it differs from other Clio creation tools. The definition is insufficient for an agent to correctly select and invoke this tool among many similar siblings.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It merely states that the only parameter, 'arguments', is a 'JSON string of arguments' without explaining what arguments are expected, their format, or any constraints. This adds minimal value beyond the schema.

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 restates the tool name as 'Clio connector operation create_custom_action' without specifying what the action does or what resource it creates. It does not distinguish from sibling tools like clio_create_bill or clio_create_contact, all of which are creation operations.

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 is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites, context, or when to use other custom action-related tools (e.g., clio_update_custom_action, clio_delete_custom_action).

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