setup_steering

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full behavioral burden. It states the file path created, what the file instructs the AI to do, and the return value. It does not mention behavior if the file already exists or whether it overwrites, but for a simple setup tool the core behavior is disclosed well.

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 compact and front-loaded: purpose first, then file details, then the optional parameter, then the call timing, then the return value. Every sentence adds useful information without redundancy.

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 low-complexity setup tool with one optional parameter, the description covers the what, where, when, and return value. The only notable gap is the lack of guidance on repeated calls or behavior when the steering file already exists. Overall, it is sufficiently complete for an agent to invoke correctly.

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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It explains 'workspace_path' as 'path to workspace root (default: current directory)', which adds meaning beyond the raw schema. It could go further by clarifying how workspace_path affects the file location, but the parameter's role is reasonably clear.

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: it creates a steering file at a specific path (.kiro/steering/memory-first.md) with a defined role. This is distinct from the sibling memory CRUD and health-check tools, so an agent can identify that this is a one-time setup operation.

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 gives an explicit trigger condition: 'Call this once after adding the MCP server to enable memory-first workflows.' It does not explicitly discuss when not to use it or name alternatives, but the one-time setup context is clear and distinguishes it from the ongoing memory operations in the sibling list.

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