list_quotes

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

No annotations provided, so description must fully convey behavior. It indicates a read-only operation, but omits authentication needs, error handling, pagination, or ordering. The description is minimal for behavioral transparency.

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?

Single sentence with no extraneous words; information is front-loaded and efficiently conveys the tool's action and optional parameter.

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 simple list tool with one optional parameter, the description provides basic functionality. However, it lacks guidance on output content (though output schema exists), ordering, or relationship to other entities like clusters, which could improve usability.

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?

With 0% schema coverage, the description adds context by stating the cluster_slug parameter is optional and used for filtering. This clarifies the parameter's purpose, though it could further explain what a cluster_slug represents or how to obtain it.

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 it lists captured quotes with optional cluster filtering. It distinguishes from sibling tools like capture_quote (create) and list_clusters (lists clusters), but does not explicitly differentiate from other list tools like list_crystals or list_papers_by_label.

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?

Implies usage: retrieve quotes, optionally filtered by cluster. No explicit guidance on when not to use or alternatives among sibling list tools, leaving inference to the agent.

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