discord_list_channels

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

Annotations already supply readOnlyHint=true, and the description reinforces this with 'Read-only.' It adds valuable behavioral context not in the annotations: grouping by category, ordering by position, and the exact output shape (JSON object keyed by category name). This is useful disclosure beyond the structured metadata.

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 only three sentences, each earning its place: the primary behavior, the return shape/ordering, and routing to the sibling tool. No filler or redundant restatement of the name.

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 simple read-only tool with one well-documented parameter, an output schema, and annotations declaring it safe and open-world, the description covers everything an agent needs to invoke it correctly and distinguish it from the closest sibling.

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 already documents the single parameter fully ('Discord server (guild) ID (snowflake)') with 100% coverage. The description adds no further parameter-level meaning, so the 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 states a specific verb ('List'), resource ('all channels in a server'), and adds meaningful detail about grouping by parent category and ordering by position. It also differentiates itself from discord_find_channel_by_name, which would be the natural overlapping sibling.

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 explicitly names the alternative tool and the condition for using it: 'Use discord_find_channel_by_name to locate a specific channel.' This gives an agent clear routing guidance beyond just saying what the tool does.

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