list_webex_space_messages

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

With no annotations, the description should disclose behavioral traits. It indicates read-only listing and alias behavior, but does not discuss rate limits, authorization, error handling, or pagination details beyond max_results. 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 concise and well-structured with separate sections for purpose, alias note, args, and returns. It is front-loaded with the main action. Slight verbosity in the alias explanation, but still efficient.

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 no annotations or output schema, the description covers the essential: parameter details, return format, and alias relationship. It lacks details on error responses, sorting, or pagination behavior beyond max_results, but is mostly complete for a simple list tool.

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 has 0% description coverage, so the description carries full burden. It explains each parameter: space_id (required), mentioned_people (filter), before/before_message (date/message ID), max_results (default 50, max 1000). This adds significant meaning beyond the schema's basic type info.

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 the action ('List messages from a Webex space') and specifies the resource (messages) and container (space). It also clarifies this is an alias for list_webex_messages, distinguishing it from 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 notes it's an alias for list_webex_messages, implying interchangeability, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives or provide exclusion criteria. No guidance on prerequisites or context.

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