list_alerts

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must cover behavioral traits. It states 'List active alerts' (a read operation) and mentions filter options, but does not disclose details like pagination, ordering, what 'active' means, or any potential side effects. This is minimal transparency.

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 two sentences, the first conveying the main purpose and the second listing allowed values. It is efficient, front-loaded, and has no unnecessary words.

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?

While an output schema exists (so return values are covered), the description lacks context about what 'active' entails, whether filters are exact or partial, and does not mention the cluster parameter. For a tool with three parameters and no annotations, this is insufficiently complete.

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 description adds meaning for two of three parameters (severity and state) by listing possible values, which is helpful given the schema has 0% description coverage. However, the cluster parameter is not mentioned, so the description is incomplete.

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 lists active alerts from Alertmanager with optional filters by severity and state. The verb 'list' and resource 'active alerts' are specific and distinct from sibling tools like get_alert_details or list_alerting_rules.

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 indicates optional filtering but does not provide guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like get_alert_details for specific alerts. It implies usage for listing alerts but lacks explicit when-not or alternative recommendations.

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