Select Features

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

Annotations only provide idempotentHint: true, which may be misleading as selection operations typically modify state. The description does not clarify selection behavior (e.g., replace vs add vs toggle) or side effects like clearing previous selections.

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 a single short sentence, which is concise but lacks structure. It front-loads the purpose but omits necessary details, making it barely adequate.

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 3 parameters, no output schema, and the complexity of selection operations (e.g., selection mode, clearing previous selections), the description is incomplete. It does not explain the result of selection or how the parameters interact.

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?

With 0% schema description coverage, the description adds some meaning by linking 'expression' and 'feature IDs' to the parameters, but does not explain their syntax, precedence, or default behavior. It provides a high-level semantic link but lacks depth.

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 verb 'Select', the resource 'features in a layer', and the methods 'by expression or feature IDs'. It distinguishes from sibling tools like get_selection and clear_selection by indicating it performs a selection 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?

No guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives. For instance, when to use select_features vs identify_features or get_selection is not addressed, nor are scenarios where selection should be avoided.

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