install_multiple

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It only repeats the verb 'install' without revealing side effects (e.g., system modifications, permission needs), failure behavior, or reversibility. This is minimal beyond what the name already conveys.

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, front-loaded sentence with no unnecessary words. It efficiently conveys the core action and scope, earning a top score for conciseness.

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 simple nature of the tool (one parameter, no output schema), the description covers the core function adequately. However, without annotations or an output schema, it doesn't address return values, failure handling, or operational details, so it's not fully complete. A 3 reflects the adequacy gap.

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 input schema covers 100% of parameters, with the 'tools' field described as 'List of tools to install' and an enum of valid values. The description adds 'multiple' and 'development tools' context, but no additional semantic detail like ordering, default behavior, or constraints beyond what the schema states. Baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 action ('Install') and the resource ('multiple development tools'), with 'at once' indicating batch behavior. This distinguishes it from siblings like install_tool (singular) or install_python (specific), so there's no ambiguity about what it does.

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 implies a use case (when you need multiple tools installed) but doesn't explicitly state when to prefer this over single-install tools or mention alternatives. There's no exclusion criteria or guidance on when not to use it, so guidance is only contextual.

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