ebay_update_offer

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It only says 'Update an existing offer', which implies mutation but provides no details on side effects, idempotency, authorization, or rate limits. This is insufficient for an agent to understand the tool's impact.

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 very concise (one sentence). It front-loads the key action, but could be slightly longer to include essential context while remaining 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 the tool's complexity (nested object parameter, no output schema, no annotations), the description lacks completeness. It does not specify which fields are updatable, required sub-fields, or differences from similar tools like ebay_bulk_update_price_quantity. An agent would need more information to use it correctly.

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 100%, meaning both top-level parameters have descriptions. The description adds no additional meaning beyond what the schema already provides (e.g., 'offerId: The offer ID'). Therefore, baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 'Update an existing offer' clearly states the verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling tools like ebay_create_offer and ebay_get_offer by mentioning 'update' and 'existing'. However, it does not explicitly differentiate from other update tools like ebay_update_ad_bid, but the resource name is distinct enough.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., ebay_create_offer, ebay_publish_offer). No prerequisites or context are provided, so an agent lacks decision support for invoking this tool correctly.

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