start_playback

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

No annotations exist, and the description lacks behavioral details. It does not disclose what happens if already playing (e.g., restart vs. no-op), whether playback position resets, or if it requires a specific state. Minimal transparency for a simple action.

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, concise sentence with no unnecessary words. It is front-loaded and efficiently conveys the action.

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 zero-parameter input and simple nature of starting playback, the description is mostly complete. However, it lacks contextual details like whether it toggles or the effect on current position, though for a straightforward action this is acceptable.

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?

There are no parameters, so the description adds no parameter meaning beyond the schema. With 100% schema coverage, the baseline is 3, and the description does not improve or degrade that.

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 explicitly states the action ('start playing') and the resource ('the Ableton session'), providing a clear and specific purpose. It distinguishes from sibling tools like stop_playback (which stops) and fire_clip (which triggers a specific clip).

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 fire_clip or stop_playback. There is no mention of prerequisites (e.g., session must be loaded) or context (e.g., used after loading a set).

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