update_todo

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It indicates mutation (update/toggle) but does not clarify side effects, required permissions, or whether partial updates are allowed. The term 'toggle' is ambiguous given the explicit status enum, potentially confusing an agent.

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 directly states the purpose, with no redundant information. It is efficient but could benefit from a slightly more structured format (e.g., separate sentences for update vs toggle).

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 update tool with fully documented parameters and no output schema, the description provides the essential purpose. However, it could include more context about the toggle behavior and the effect on existing data, making it just adequate.

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 description does not need to add much. The description mentions 'new task description' and 'new status', which align with the schema definitions but add no new meaning beyond what is already in the schema. Baseline score of 3 applies.

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 is to update a task or toggle its status. The verb 'update' and resource 'task' are specific, and the brief mention of toggle status distinguishes the intent. However, it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like delete_todo, but the action is self-explanatory.

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 such as create_todo or delete_todo. The description simply states what it does, leaving the agent to infer usage context without explicit recommendations or exclusions.

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