deallocate_vm

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

With no annotations, the description provides good behavioral disclosure: it stops the VM, releases compute resources, and ends charges. However, it does not mention that the VM transitions to a 'Deallocated' state or that it's an asynchronous operation, which could be helpful.

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 extremely concise: one sentence for the main purpose and one line for parameters. It is front-loaded and contains no fluff, making it efficient for an agent to parse.

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 (2 required params, no nested objects) and the presence of an output schema, the description adequately explains the core behavior. However, it omits details like the requirement that the VM must be running or that the operation is asynchronous.

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 input schema has 2 parameters with only titles (coverage 0%). The description's 'Args' section adds minimal value: 'Resource group name' and 'Virtual machine name' are slightly more descriptive but do not provide constraints, formatting, or examples.

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 action 'Deallocate' and the resource 'a VM'. It includes specific behavioral details 'stops and releases compute, no charges' which distinguishes it from siblings like stop_vm and start_vm.

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 implies usage for stopping billing and releasing compute, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like stop_vm (which may keep resources) or when not to use it. No prerequisites or conditions are mentioned.

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