lattice_create_database_snapshot

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states that the snapshot is taken instantly and outside schedule, but it does not mention any side effects (e.g., performance impact, idempotency, error handling, or what happens if a snapshot already exists). For a creation action, more transparency is needed.

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 sentence with no extraneous information. It is highly concise and front-loaded with the key action and context, earning a top score for efficiency.

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 simplicity (one required parameter, no output schema), the description provides the core functionality. However, it lacks details about the snapshot process (e.g., is it asynchronous?), what the tool returns, and any constraints. It is minimally complete but could be more informative.

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 coverage is 100% with a single 'id' parameter described as 'Database instance ID'. The description does not add any additional meaning beyond the schema, such as how to obtain the ID or constraints. Since the schema already provides adequate documentation, this is at baseline level (3).

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 specifies the action ('take a snapshot'), the resource ('database instance'), and the context ('now, outside its schedule'). It distinguishes from related sibling tools like list, restore, or delete snapshots, and implies it is an on-demand operation separate from scheduled snapshots.

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 indicates that the tool takes a snapshot immediately, outside the normal schedule, which implies on-demand use. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this vs. scheduling a snapshot, nor does it mention prerequisites (e.g., database must exist) or when not to use it. Some guidance is implied but not explicit.

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