skip_track

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of disclosure. It explains the return status for no_active_device, raises ValueError for invalid direction, and notes that spotipy.SpotifyException may be propagated, providing useful behavioral context beyond simple 'skips track.'

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 well-organized docstring with clear sections for parameters, returns, and raises. Each sentence earns its place with no fluff or repetition, making it easy to parse quickly.

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?

The description fully covers the tool's behavior for the simple task: it specifies the parameter, possible return values, and error handling. Given the tool has only one optional parameter and a straightforward action, this is complete.

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 only shows direction with a default, but the description fully explains the two valid values ('next'/'previous'), their meanings, and the default behavior. It also documents the return dict and error conditions, adding complete semantic meaning that schema alone lacks.

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 tool's function: 'Skip to the next or previous track on the active Spotify device.' This is a specific verb (skip) and resource (track), and it distinguishes the tool from siblings like play_pause or get_current_track.

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 implies usage by explaining the direction parameter, but it does not explicitly mention when to use this tool versus alternatives such as play_pause or transfer_playback. The context is clear from the purpose, but no exclusions or alternatives are named.

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