update_subscription

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden for behavioral disclosure. It only says 'update' and lists action types, but does not explain side effects (e.g., billing proration, cancellation implications, auth requirements, reversibility), leaving the agent unaware of the operational impact.

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 single, efficient sentence with no filler words. It is front-loaded with the action and resource, and the parenthetical examples add value without bloat. Slightly under-specified but appropriately concise for the tool's simplicity.

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?

Despite having a clear schema, the tool is a mutating operation with no annotations and no output schema. The description does not convey necessary context about return values, error conditions, idempotency, or when status changes are valid. This is a significant gap for an update tool.

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 input schema provides complete descriptions for all parameters (100% coverage), so the description adds no extra meaning. The listed actions map loosely to the status enum but do not clarify relationships between amount and status. Baseline 3 is appropriate because the schema does the heavy lifting.

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 action ('update') and the resource ('subscription'), and adds examples of update types ('pause, resume, modify'), which distinguishes it from create/get siblings. It is specific and unambiguous.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as create_subscription or get_subscription. The description does not mention prerequisites, exclusion conditions, or preferred scenarios.

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