rails_lens_circular_dependencies

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

Annotations already provide readOnly, idempotent, non-destructive hints. The description adds that it detects callback mutual updates and bidirectional associations, which is helpful for understanding scope. No contradictions 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 a single sentence that effectively summarizes the tool's purpose. It is front-loaded with the main action. However, it lacks additional structure or context that would further improve 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?

While the tool has an output schema, the description only mentions Mermaid visualization, omitting that JSON output is also available. For a circular dependency detector, this is a notable gap. The description is adequate but not fully 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?

The tool description does not describe any parameters, but the input schema provides full descriptions for both 'format' and 'entry_point' with defaults and optionality. Since schema coverage is high, baseline of 3 is appropriate.

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 detects circular dependencies between models and visualizes them with Mermaid diagrams, distinguishing it from related siblings like dependency_graph or dead_code. However, it only covers visualization in Mermaid, missing the JSON output option.

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 on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as dependency_graph or trace_callback_chain. No mention of prerequisites or context, leaving the agent to infer usage.

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