trailmem_welcome

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It discloses stateful behavior (repeat calls return short form, force=true resets) and output contents. However, it does not mention side effects, auth requirements, or confirm read-only nature.

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?

Two sentences, no wasted words. First sentence front-loads purpose and contents; second sentence adds critical behavioral nuance. Perfectly concise and well-structured.

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?

Covers the core behavior and statefulness, aligning with the simple tool complexity. However, missing parameter documentation (project, agent_type) and lack of any annotations make it incomplete for full autonomous use.

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 0% with 3 parameters. Description only explains 'force' partially (for repeat calls). 'project' and 'agent_type' are completely undocumented, leaving the agent without guidance on their purpose or allowed values.

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 tool's purpose as a 'Session-start briefing' and lists the contents (pinned rules, recent activity, open tasks, stats). This is specific and distinct from siblings like trailmem_query or trailmem_show, though not explicitly differentiated.

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?

Provides clear usage guidance: 'Call once at session start' and explains behavior on repeat calls (short form unless force=true). Does not explicitly mention when not to use or alternatives, but the instruction is actionable.

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