Step out

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

Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false and destructiveHint=false, so the tool is known to be non-read-only and non-destructive. The description adds that it 'return[s] the new pause snapshot,' which implies execution pauses, but it does not disclose side effects such as whether stepping out will terminate if already at top level, or whether the session state changes beyond the snapshot. Some behavioral context is provided, 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 a single, concise sentence that front-loads the primary action ('Step out of the current function') and states the return value. There is no filler or redundancy. It is appropriately sized for a simple debug operation.

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?

The tool has no output schema, so the description should explain the return value in more detail. 'Pause snapshot' is vague; an agent might not know its structure or content. It also does not mention that a debug session must be active or that it applies to the currently paused frame. Given the low complexity (2 optional params) and minimal annotations, the description is adequate but leaves key operational details implicit.

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 schema covers sessionId (with a description) but leaves timeoutMs undocumented (50% coverage). The tool description does not mention either parameter, so it adds no semantic value beyond the schema. Since timeoutMs is not described anywhere, the description fails to compensate for the schema gap, leaving the agent to guess its meaning or default behavior.

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 verb ('Step out') and resource ('current function'), and clearly indicates the outcome ('return the new pause snapshot'). It is distinct from sibling tools like debug_step_over and debug_step_into because 'out' implies exiting the function, which is unambiguous. No tautology; it adds meaningful information.

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 gives no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like debug_step_over or debug_step_into. It does not mention conditions, prerequisites (e.g., an active debug session), or when not to use it. The usage context is only implied by the name and sibling set, which is insufficient for an agent to choose correctly.

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