setup_pcb_layout

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It discloses file creation and default settings, but does not mention potential side effects, required permissions, or reversibility. Adequate but not comprehensive.

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 brief and includes a bullet list for clarity. It is front-loaded with the main purpose. However, some sentences could be streamlined without losing 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?

Given the tool has an output schema, return values are covered. The description explains the initialization details, but lacks broader context about prerequisites (e.g., project must exist) or relationship to other tools. Adequate but could be more complete.

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 100%, so baseline is 3. Description repeats parameter info (width, height, unit) but adds no additional semantics like unit conversion or constraints beyond schema defaults.

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 'Initialize PCB layout with specified dimensions' and lists what is created (file, dimensions, grid, layers, design rules). It distinguishes from siblings like create_kicad_project and add_component_from_library by focusing on layout initialization.

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 this is the first step after schematic creation for PCB layout, but does not explicitly say when to use it versus alternatives, nor provide exclusion criteria. Siblings like analyze_pcb_nets suggest later usage, but no direct guidance.

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