Create Alert

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

No annotations are present, so the description must carry behavioral context. It does add valuable information: actions are not limited to built-in ones, multiple actions are allowed, and custom action names/keys come from list_alert_actions. However, it does not disclose what happens on duplicate alert names, whether any authorization is needed, or what the response indicates about success.

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 concise, front-loads the core definition, and uses three sentences that each add value. The prerequisite instruction about list_alert_actions is included without clutter.

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 that there are no annotations and no output schema, the description leaves gaps about how to verify creation success and what happens on conflict or invalid configurations. It covers the key conceptual role well, but relies almost entirely on the schema for the rest.

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 high at 88%, so the schema already explains most parameters. The description adds context around the actions parameter by saying custom actions are supported and pointing to list_alert_actions, but it does not enrich semantics for required parameters beyond what the schema already provides.

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 the specific operation: creating a Splunk alert, defined as a scheduled saved search with trigger conditions. This distinguishes it from create_saved_search, which creates saved searches without trigger conditions, and from update_alert, which modifies existing alerts.

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 a useful prerequisite to call list_alert_actions first, but gives no guidance about when to use create_saved_search versus create_alert, or when to switch to update_alert. It does not mention any exclusions or alternatives by name.

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