acquire_printer_lock

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavior. It mentions exclusive lock, prevention of simultaneous control, and timeout, but lacks details on lock failure behavior, idempotency, automatic release, or side effects. This is insufficient for a tool with no annotation safety net.

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 well-structured with a clear opening statement, an explanatory sentence, and a parameter list. It is concise with no redundant information. Could be slightly more compact, but overall efficient.

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?

The tool has 3 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations. The description covers purpose and parameter semantics but omits return value, error handling, and blocking vs non-blocking behavior. For a relatively simple tool, the description is adequate but not fully complete to guide an agent without additional context.

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 coverage is 0% with no parameter descriptions in the schema. The description includes an explicit 'Args' section explaining each parameter's semantic role (printer_name: Printer to lock, holder: Identifier of the lock holder, timeout_seconds: Maximum time to wait). This adds significant meaning beyond the schema's types and defaults.

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 it acquires an exclusive lock on a printer for safe concurrent access. The verb 'acquire' and resource 'lock on printer' are specific. It distinguishes itself from sibling 'release_printer_lock' by focusing on acquisition.

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 gives context by stating it prevents multiple agents from controlling the same printer simultaneously, implying when to use. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use or mention alternatives like 'release_printer_lock'. Guidelines are implied but not explicit.

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