Transactions Update Transaction

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

The description adds that the tool 'may create or update Monarch data', which provides context beyond annotations (e.g., openWorldHint, readOnlyHint=false). However, it doesn't disclose specific behavioral traits like required permissions, side effects, or whether changes are reversible.

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 very short (two sentences), which is concise but lacks necessary detail. Every sentence is not earning its place; the second sentence introduces confusion without adding clear value.

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 has 17 parameters, no output schema, and no behavioral details beyond a vague note about creation, the description is incomplete. It does not explain return values, required fields, or how to correctly invoke 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 description does not add any meaning beyond the input schema. With 17 parameters and only 12% schema description coverage, the description fails to compensate for the lack of parameter documentation, leaving the agent uncertain about parameter semantics.

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 states 'Update transaction', clearly indicating the verb and resource. However, the additional phrase 'This may create or update Monarch data' introduces ambiguity about whether it can also create transactions, which contradicts the name. Nonetheless, it distinguishes from sibling tools like transactions_create_transaction and transactions_delete_transaction.

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 alternatives such as transactions_create_transaction, nor are there any prerequisites or context about typical use cases.

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