save_file

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

No annotations provided; description carries the burden. It states 'Save a file,' implying a write operation. It does not disclose potential side effects, overwrite behavior, or permission requirements. For a straightforward save operation, this is minimally adequate but lacks detail.

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?

Two concise sentences with front-loaded purpose. No wasted words; every sentence serves a clear function.

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 simplicity (one optional parameter, no output schema), the description covers the essential usage. It lacks details about error conditions or what happens if the path is invalid, but for a basic save operation it is fairly 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 coverage is 0%, so description must compensate. It adds meaning by explaining that 'path' identifies a specific open file, and omitting it saves the active file. However, it does not specify path format (absolute/relative) or constraints, so it adds some but not full 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?

Description clearly states the verb 'Save' and resource 'file', and distinguishes between saving a specific open file (with path) and the active file (without path). This differentiates it from the sibling tool 'save_all' which saves all open files.

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?

Provides clear guidance: 'Pass path to save a specific open file; omit path to save the active file.' This explicitly tells when to provide the parameter versus not. However, it does not discuss when not to use this tool or compare to alternatives like save_all.

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