archive

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

Discloses side effect 'thread leaves the inbox' and reversibility via 'modify_labels add INBOX', adding value beyond annotations (idempotentHint=true, destructiveHint=false). No contradiction.

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?

Concise, front-loaded with action, then usage, then side effects. Every sentence contributes meaning with no waste.

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?

Covers purpose, usage guidelines, side effects, and reversibility; output schema exists so return values need not be explained. Complete for a simple tool.

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?

Only one parameter (threadId) with 0% schema coverage, but the description does not elaborate on it beyond the schema; the parameter is self-explanatory, so minimal added value.

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?

Clearly states 'Archive a thread (remove it from the inbox)' with specific verb and resource, and distinguishes from siblings 'trash' and 'snooze' by naming them.

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?

Explicitly provides when-to-use ('inbox triage') and when-not-to-use ('to delete use trash, to defer use snooze'), with alternatives named.

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