add_dns_record

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose side effects and permissions. It mentions type-specific fields but does not state whether adding an existing record fails or overwrites, what authentication is required, or any idempotency behavior. This is a significant gap for a write operation.

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?

Two sentences, front-loaded with the primary action, followed by compact examples. No redundant information.

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 mutating tool with a nested fields object and no output schema, the description covers essential field examples but lacks guidance on response format, error conditions, or duplicate handling. It is minimally viable but leaves important operational details to the schema or runtime.

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?

The schema describes all parameters, providing baseline coverage. The description adds concrete field examples (e.g. A record: {address: '1.2.3.4'}; CNAME: {cname: 'target.example.com'}; TXT: {txtdata: 'value'}; MX: {exchange: 'mail.example.com', preference: '10'}), giving meaning beyond the schema's vague 'type-specific value fields' explanation, particularly for the nested fields object.

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 uses a specific verb 'Add' with a resource 'DNS record' and scopes it to a zone. The name and sibling context (list/edit/remove) make it clear this creates new records, distinguishing it from editing or deleting.

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?

The description explains what the tool does but never explicitly states when to choose this over edit_dns_record or remove_dns_record. The context implies creation, but no exclusions or alternative tool guidance are provided.

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