Update alias

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

The description discloses a critical behavioral trait: redirectTo replaces the full target list rather than merging. This goes beyond the schema and is especially important given no annotations are provided. It doesn't cover permissions or return value, but the key semantic is well explained.

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?

Two concise sentences: the first states the tool's purpose, the second provides an essential caveat about the destructive replacement behavior. No unnecessary words or repetition.

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 update tool with fully documented parameters and no output schema, the description covers the main functional caveat. It could mention expected return values or error conditions, but the description is sufficiently complete for the tool's complexity.

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?

Schema coverage is 100%, providing descriptions for all three parameters. The description adds further value by clarifying the replacement semantics of redirectTo, which is not fully obvious from the schema alone. Name and address are self-explanatory.

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 that the tool updates an alias's display name and/or redirect targets, with a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling tools by targeting aliases, though it doesn't explicitly contrast with create_alias or delete_alias.

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: you use this when you need to modify an existing alias's display name or redirect targets. However, there is no explicit guidance about when not to use it or comparison with alternatives like create_alias or update_mailbox.

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