Release file reservation

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

Discloses side effects ('updates reservation state and audit events') and failure modes ('returns zero when no matching active reservation exists'). No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. Could mention idempotency but still strong.

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?

Structured with labeled sections (Purpose, When to use, Inputs, Side effects, Output, Failure modes). Every sentence adds value; no redundancy. Front-loaded with most important info.

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?

Covers purpose, usage, inputs, side effects, output, and failure modes. Output schema exists so return values are not needed. Lacks mention of error types or authentication, but still complete for typical agent use.

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% (baseline 3). Description adds relationship: 'workspace_id plus reservation_id or file_path, optionally scoped by agent_name', clarifying alternative inputs beyond the schema's individual descriptions.

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 starts with 'Purpose: Release active file reservations after work is done or abandoned.' Clearly states verb 'release' and resource 'file reservations', distinguishing it from sibling tools like 'reserve_files' or 'release_symbol_reservation'.

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?

Explicit 'When to use' section lists scenarios: handoff, task completion, stale reservation clearance. No explicit when-not-to-use or alternative tool names, but context is clear and covers typical use cases.

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