alexa_list_device_modes

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, so the safety profile is covered. The description goes beyond them by disclosing what is returned: both the current value of each mode and the set of values it accepts, which is genuinely useful for planning a subsequent write. No pagination, auth, or failure behavior is mentioned, keeping it short of a 5.

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?

One front-loaded sentence carries the purpose, and a second short sentence routes to the setter. The parenthetical device examples are dense but each illustrates a distinct mode domain, so little is wasted; the inline enumeration is the only mild drag.

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?

With no output schema, the description correctly compensates by stating that both current settings and accepted values are returned, and it names the complementary tool for acting on them. Nothing essential for calling this read-only list tool is missing.

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 100%, so the single 'target' parameter is already documented as a device name or id from alexa_list_smart_home. The description adds device-type context but no additional syntax or constraints for the parameter, so the baseline 3 applies.

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?

States a specific verb (List) and resource (device mode settings) scoped to Alexa smart-home devices, and concretizes it with examples across device classes (thermostat fan, Roomba state, light effect, washer/purifier). It also implicitly separates itself from the setter counterpart by framing output as current values plus accepted values.

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?

Gives a clear downstream workflow: read the setting/value names here, then pass them to alexa_set_device_mode. It does not, however, state when to prefer this over overlapping readers such as alexa_get_smart_home_state or alexa_control_smart_home, so the routing guidance is good but not exhaustive.

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