update_a_message

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 'Update a message', implying mutation, but fails to mention necessary permissions, idempotency, side effects, or required authentication. The agent has no insight into the tool's behavior beyond a generic verb.

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?

At three words, the description is under-specified rather than concise. It lacks critical details and does not earn its brevity. Every sentence should add value; this one barely states the obvious.

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 zero parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is severely incomplete. The agent cannot determine how to invoke the tool, what data to provide, or what the response contains. This is insufficient for a functional 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?

The input schema has zero parameters, which is unusual for an update operation. The description does not explain how the target message is identified (e.g., via path, conversation context) or what values can be modified. Although schema coverage is 100%, the description fails to add meaning for the parameterless schema.

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 'Update a message' clearly indicates a write operation on a message resource, distinguishing it from siblings like create_a_message or delete_a_message. However, it lacks specificity about what aspects of a message can be updated, leaving the scope ambiguous.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus create_a_message or other alternatives. The description does not mention prerequisites, context requirements (e.g., needing an existing message), or conditions for use.

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