set_annotation

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

With no annotations at all, the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the tool mutates state (create/update) but does not reveal idempotency behavior, whether annotationId is required for updates, what happens if the nodeId does not exist, or whether categoryId is mandatory. The double-action nature also leaves ambiguity about whether an update without annotationId silently creates a duplicate.

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, short sentence with no filler. It front-loads the essential verb and resource. Given the schema carries the parameter details, this level of conciseness is appropriate.

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?

No output schema, no annotations, and a mutation tool with create/update dual semantics. The description does not explain update rules (e.g., what happens when annotationId is omitted for an existing node), merge behavior, or required preconditions like node existence. For a tool with 5 params and two possible operations, this level of context is insufficient.

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 parameters are already documented. The description does not add semantics beyond the schema, but the schema descriptions are clear enough. The phrase 'create or update' does imply annotationId is relevant for update, slightly reinforcing the schema, but no extra semantics are added. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 'Create or update an annotation' clearly states the verb and resource: it both creates and updates an annotation, which is a specific, common Figma-like operation. It distinguishes itself from siblings like get_annotations (read) and set_multiple_annotations (bulk variant) by explicit create/update semantics, though it does not name those siblings.

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: use when you need to create a new annotation or update an existing one, as indicated by 'Create or update'. There are no explicit exclusions, alternatives, or when-to-use versus set_multiple_annotations guidance, but the context is fairly clear given the sibling list.

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