insp_tools_list

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It mentions the connection and disconnection process, which is helpful, but lacks critical details such as whether this is a read-only operation, potential side effects (e.g., server state changes), error handling, or performance considerations (e.g., timeouts). For a tool that interacts with external servers, this is a significant gap.

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 extremely concise—just one sentence with three clauses—and front-loaded with the core purpose. Every word earns its place by conveying essential information about the tool's function and operational flow without any redundancy or fluff.

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 complexity of connecting to and querying an MCP server, the description is incomplete. It lacks details on output format (no output schema is provided), error conditions, authentication needs, or rate limits. While the schema covers parameters well, the overall context for safe and effective use is insufficient, especially for a tool with external dependencies.

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 schema description coverage is 100%, meaning all parameters are documented in the input schema. The description adds no additional parameter semantics beyond what's in the schema (e.g., it doesn't explain parameter interactions or provide examples). This meets the baseline score of 3 for high schema coverage, but doesn't compensate with extra 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?

The description clearly states the action ('List all tools') and resource ('exposed by an MCP server'), providing a specific verb+resource combination. It also mentions the operational flow ('Connects, lists tools, and disconnects'), which adds useful context. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate this tool from its sibling 'insp_tools_call', which appears to be for invoking tools rather than listing them.

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 no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'insp_tools_call' or other sibling tools. It mentions the operational steps but doesn't specify prerequisites, use cases, or exclusions. This leaves the agent without clear direction on tool selection in context.

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