list_agents

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states the tool lists agents, failing to mention that it is a read-only, non-destructive operation, any required permissions, rate limits, or pagination behavior. The description lacks essential transparency for safe use.

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 short sentences, front-loading the core purpose. Every word is necessary; there is no redundancy. It efficiently communicates the tool's function and a brief definition of agents.

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 no output schema, the description should explain return values or behavior. It does not mention what the output contains (e.g., list of agent objects with names and IDs), nor does it clarify the effect of the optional workspaceId parameter. The description is incomplete for a tool with minimal schema and no output schema.

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 100% (the workspaceId parameter has a description in the input schema). The tool description adds no additional parameter meaning beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate as the schema already documents the parameter adequately.

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 all agents in a workspace and explains what agents are (AI assistant configurations). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like list_agent_jobs, which list jobs for an agent. The verb 'list' and resource 'agents' are specific and unambiguous.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as list_agent_jobs, list_comments, or list_tasks. It does not mention prerequisites, when to use the optional workspaceId, or any exclusions. The usage context is entirely implicit.

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