Update Podcast Episode

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=false and idempotentHint=true. The description adds meaningful partial-update semantics ('Send only the fields to change'), which is valuable behavioral context not present in the annotations. No contradictions detected.

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?

Two concise sentences with an immediate action verb and no redundant information. The description is front-loaded and easy 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 11-parameter schema with incomplete descriptions and no output schema, the description covers the core identification and partial update mechanism but leaves parameter-specific understanding and return behavior to the schema. It is adequate but not comprehensive.

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 only 45%, with fields like blurb, guest, title, appleUrl, published, and spotifyUrl lacking descriptions. The description says 'send only the fields to change' but does not explain individual parameter meanings, failing to compensate for the low coverage.

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 'Update an episode by id or slug,' using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like 'add_podcast_episode' and 'delete_episode' by explicitly scoping to updates.

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?

Provides clear usage context: it is for updating existing episodes, identified by id or slug, and supports partial updates ('Send only the fields to change'). It does not explicitly name alternatives, but the sibling tool names make the usage boundaries obvious.

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