list_scenes

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the behavioral burden and does a good job: it discloses newest-first ordering, the possible status values (ready | loading | error), and the included fields. It does not discuss side effects or access requirements, but the list-style name and 'built so far' phrasing strongly imply a read-only status operation.

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 compact sentence that front-loads the core purpose and packs ordering, status values, and returned fields into minimal words. Every element earns its place.

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?

For a zero-parameter listing tool with an output schema present, the description is sufficiently complete. It tells the agent what the list contains, how it is ordered, and what statuses to expect, leaving little ambiguity about how to invoke or interpret the 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 tool has zero parameters and the input schema is empty, so there is no parameter meaning to explain. The baseline of 4 applies because no semantic gaps exist for an agent to resolve.

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 identifies the tool as a listing operation for scenes, and specifies the meaningful fields returned (status, area, series, widget URL). It does not explicitly distinguish itself from sibling tools, but the phrasing 'Scenes built so far' and the field list are specific enough to communicate what the tool does.

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 implies this tool is used to check which scenes have been built and their current status, but it does not explicitly state when to choose it over siblings like ui_scenes or list_regions. There are no exclusions or alternatives mentioned, so usage guidance is only implied.

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