ae_addTextAnimator

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

Annotations already declare this is a non-read-only, non-destructive, closed-world mutation, so the safety profile is partly covered. The description adds timing behavior ('over duration seconds from startTime') and range-selector context, but does not disclose prerequisites such as the target layer needing to be a text layer, nor side effects or undo behavior.

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, front-loaded sentence with no filler. It efficiently packs the tool purpose, animator modes, timing, and basedOn scope into a compact statement.

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 10-parameter mutation tool with no output schema and low schema description coverage, the description covers the core concept and timing behavior but remains incomplete on prerequisites, side effects, and several optional parameters. It is minimally adequate but has clear contextual 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?

Schema description coverage is only 30%, so the description must compensate. It does explain the central animator options, duration, startTime, and basedOn values, but it omits several undocumented parameters such as reverse, randomOrder, tracking value semantics, and it lists only five of the seven animator enum values.

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 After Effects resource and behavior: a per-character text animator with a range-selector reveal, naming supported animator modes and timing semantics. It clearly distinguishes this from generic text-layer or text-styling tools, though it does not explicitly name sibling alternatives.

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?

Usage is implied by the animator names and reveal mechanics, which suggest applying this to text that should animate over time. However, there is no explicit guidance on when to choose this tool versus ae_addTextLayer or ae_styleText, nor any exclusions or prerequisites.

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