Add or update a channel

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

Annotations indicate idempotentHint=true, and the description adds behavioral context: it explains that omitting index uses next free slot (so plain add won't overwrite), and it returns the channel's key. No contradiction with annotations.

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 with three sentences, each adding value: first sets purpose, second gives parameter guidance, third covers return value and alternative listing. No wasted words.

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 (3 parameters, 1 required, output schema exists), the description covers purpose, parameter behavior, return value, and alternative listing method. It is complete for an AI agent to select and invoke correctly.

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 100%, baseline 3. Description adds semantics by explaining the effect of omitting 'secret' (generates random private channel) and 'index' (uses next free slot), beyond the schema descriptions.

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 tool configures a channel slot on the connected node, with specific verb 'configure' and resource 'channel slot'. It distinguishes from siblings like 'delete_channel' and 'send_message' by focusing on channel configuration.

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 clear guidance on when to omit 'secret' (to generate a random private channel) and when to omit 'index' (to use next free slot), and mentions alternative listing via 'meshcore://channels'. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use this tool versus other tools.

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