DNS_getDNSSnapshotListV1

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the full burden. It only states the basic retrieval action, with no mention of side effects, permissions, rate limits, or error scenarios. It is a read operation but not explicitly labeled as safe.

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 two short sentences, with the first stating the action and the second providing context for usage. No unnecessary words or redundancy, achieving high conciseness.

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 list tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description is adequate but could be more complete by hinting at the response structure (e.g., 'returns a list of snapshots'). It does not explain what the result looks like or how to interpret it.

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 description coverage is 100% with one parameter 'domain' described as 'Domain name'. The description adds no additional semantics beyond what the schema provides, so it meets the baseline but does not enhance parameter understanding.

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 retrieves DNS snapshots for a domain, and uses the verb 'Retrieve'. Among sibling tools, DNS_getDNSSnapshotListV1 is distinct from DNS_getDNSSnapshotV1 (single snapshot) and DNS_restoreDNSSnapshotV1 (restoration), so purpose is well-defined.

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 says 'Use this endpoint to view available DNS backup points for restoration.' This gives a specific use case but does not explicitly mention when not to use it or compare with alternatives like DNS_getDNSSnapshotV1 for retrieving a specific snapshot.

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