JSON format / minify / sort

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It explains each mode's effect (pretty-print, compact, alphabetize keys) and notes error handling for invalid JSON. It does not mention output format or potential side effects, but these are minimal for a read-only tool.

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 two sentences, front-loaded with purpose, and every phrase adds value. No unnecessary words or repetition.

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 3 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description covers the core functionality and error behavior. It could explicitly describe the return value (transformed JSON string), but it is implied by the tool's purpose.

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 67% (input and indent described, mode only enum). The description adds meaning by explaining each mode's effect and clarifying that indent applies to format/sort_keys, supplementing the schema's default explanation.

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 ('Validate and reshape') and resource ('JSON string'), listing three distinct modes (format, minify, sort_keys). This clearly distinguishes the tool from its siblings, which operate on different data types (base64, hash, JWT, regex, UUID).

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 states the tool's purpose and modes, implying use when processing JSON strings. No explicit 'when not to use' or alternatives are provided, but given the unrelated siblings, the context is sufficient for selection.

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