count_responses_needed

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

With no annotations, the description fully defines the behavior: it counts open tickets awaiting response. No additional traits like rate limits or scope are disclosed, but the action is straightforward enough that this is adequate.

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?

A single, clear sentence conveys the entire purpose without extraneous words. Every word earns its place.

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 parameterless tool with no output schema, the description sufficiently explains the action. However, it does not clarify the scope (e.g., global vs. user-specific) which could lead to confusion with 'count_my_responses'.

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 no parameters, so the description does not need to add parameter meaning. Baseline 4 applies as there is no missing information.

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 verb 'count', the resource 'open tickets', and the condition 'awaiting a support response'. This directly states the tool's purpose and distinguishes it from sibling 'count_my_responses' which likely counts tickets assigned to the user.

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 is provided on when to use this tool versus 'count_my_responses' or other siblings. The description simply states what it does without context on appropriateness or alternatives.

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