list_instances

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

No annotations are provided, so the description itself must convey safety and behavior. 'List all connected' clearly signals a read-only operation scoped to connected instances, but it does not mention output format, pagination, or any side effects; acceptable for a zero-param list, but minimal.

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?

A single sentence with no filler; the verb, resource, and scope all appear up front. Every word 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?

Given zero parameters and no output schema, the description covers what the agent must know to invoke the tool correctly. It does not describe the list shape, but for a simple enumeration of connected instances that is not a blocking gap.

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 takes zero parameters, so there are no parameter semantics to document. The baseline of 4 applies because the schema is empty and no description compensation is needed.

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?

Description begins with the specific verb 'List' and a concrete resource, 'all connected Memos instances,' so an agent knows exactly what the tool returns. This is distinct from sibling list_memos (memos inside an instance) and connect/disconnect_instance, so there is no ambiguity.

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?

Usage is implied: call this when you need to enumerate the Memos instances that are currently connected. However, the description never explicitly states when to prefer it over list_memos or connect_instance, and it names no alternatives or exclusions.

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