update_configuration

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It discloses that changes take effect immediately and persist across sessions, and that all parameters are optional. It does not mention authorization needs or potential side effects, but the tool is a settings update likely non-destructive.

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 concise and well-structured: starts with purpose, lists parameter explanations, and ends with usage guidance and exclusions. Every sentence adds value, but could be slightly more compact.

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 lacks information about return values or confirmation of success. It does not mention whether the tool returns updated configuration or a success message. With no output schema, this information is missing. Otherwise, it covers parameter behavior and immediate effects.

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%, so baseline is 3. The description adds value by explaining each parameter's real-world effect (e.g., read_receipts: 'whether Signal tells senders when you have read their messages') beyond the schema's brief descriptions, making it easier for an AI to select correct values.

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 updates Signal account-wide messaging settings with specific verb 'Update' and resource 'messaging settings'. It distinguishes from siblings by explicitly mentioning update_account and update_profile as alternatives.

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 provides explicit guidance on when to use this tool (for messaging settings) and when not to (for profile or account-level settings). It also suggests alternatives like get_configuration, update_account, and update_profile, and notes that all parameters are optional.

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