list_snapshots

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

With no annotations, the verb 'List' clearly signals a read-only operation, so an agent can infer non-destructiveness. However, the description does not disclose any additional behavioral details such as error conditions if the VM doesn't exist, ordering of snapshots, or whether an empty list is returned. It minimally satisfies transparency for a simple list operation.

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 concise and front-loaded with the core purpose. The 'Args' block is somewhat redundant with the schema but is not verbose or confusing. Every sentence contributes to the basic understanding, with no extraneous fluff.

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 tool with a single parameter and an output schema, the description is adequate but not complete. It does not explain what happens if the VM does not exist, whether snapshots are ordered, or when to use this tool in a snapshot management workflow. It lacks richer behavioral context that would help an agent operate confidently in edge cases.

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 has only one parameter, vm_id, with no property description (0% coverage). The description says 'The VM identifier,' which adds no meaningful information beyond the schema's title 'Vm Id' and provides no format, examples, or guidance on where to obtain the ID. This fails to compensate for the lack of schema descriptions.

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 clear action ('List all snapshots') with a specific resource ('for a virtual machine'), making the tool's purpose immediately obvious. It also distinguishes itself from sibling tools like create_snapshot, revert_snapshot, and delete_snapshot, which are not listing operations.

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 implicitly conveys when to use the tool (when listing snapshots), but it does not provide explicit guidance on when to prefer this tool over alternatives or any exclusion criteria. There is no mention of using this tool before revert/delete operations or any relationship to other VM inspection tools.

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