subscriptions_update

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It only states the tool performs a patch-update, but fails to disclose behavioral traits such as idempotency, error handling, required permissions, or effects of parameters like allowMissing. This is insufficient for a mutation tool.

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 a single, efficient sentence, but it is under-specified. While front-loaded with the action, it lacks necessary detail, indicating brevity at the cost of clarity.

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 the tool's complexity (7 parameters, nested objects, no output schema, no annotations), the description is severely incomplete. It does not cover return values, error scenarios, or how to populate the subscription object, leaving critical gaps for correct invocation.

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 29%, with only packageName and productId described. The description adds meaning only to updateMask. The subscription object and other parameters (regionsVersion, latencyTolerance, allowMissing) remain undefined, leaving the agent to guess their structure and usage.

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 'Patch-update a subscription', which is a specific verb+resource combination. It distinguishes from sibling tools like subscriptions_create, subscriptions_delete, etc., by specifying the partial update nature.

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 mentions using 'updateMask' to limit fields, implying a partial update scenario. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like subscriptions_batch_update or full updates, nor does it provide exclusions or conditions.

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