list_files

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 clarifies the path is relative to home, but does not mention whether the listing is recursive, whether hidden files are included, or what the return format is. This is a significant gap for a list operation with no output schema.

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, efficient sentence with no filler. It front-loads the action and resource, making it immediately scannable.

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?

The tool is simple with only one optional parameter, but there is no output schema and no annotations. The description does not specify what the response contains (e.g., file names, sizes, types) or whether the listing is recursive, leaving some ambiguity for an agent to resolve. Adequate but with clear 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?

The input schema already includes a description for the 'dir' parameter (relative to home directory), so schema coverage is 100%. The tool description only reinforces the home-directory scope without adding new parameter semantics, keeping this at baseline 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 states a specific verb ('List') and resource ('files and directories') with a clear scope ('within the account's home directory'). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like list_databases or list_emails, which target different resource types.

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 implies usage for inspecting files, but it provides no explicit guidance on when to choose this tool over alternatives, nor any exclusions. The scope is clear, but there is no mention of when to use a different listing tool.

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