sort_column_by

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states the action and desired result but omits that this modifies the model's column sort order (a mutation), potential side effects on visuals, permission requirements, or reversibility. This is a significant transparency gap.

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 concise sentence that leads with the verb and object, includes a concrete illustrative example, and contains no filler or redundant information.

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 description plus schema cover the core function and parameters for a simple tool, but the lack of annotations and behavioral details (e.g., persistence, side effects) leaves gaps. It is adequate but not fully complete.

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 only 25% (only sortByColumn has a description). The description's example clarifies the relationship between column and sortByColumn, but does not explain table or sessionId. It partially compensates for the low coverage but not fully.

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 'Sort a column by another column' with a concrete example (Month by MonthSort), making the tool's purpose unambiguous. It distinguishes from sibling tools like sort_rows or set_visual_sort by focusing on model-level column sort-order rather than row or visual sorting.

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 when to use this tool (to achieve chronological/logical ordering instead of alphabetical) through the example, providing clear context. However, it does not explicitly mention alternative tools or exclusions, stopping short of a 5.

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