mail_listMailboxesV1

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the list is paginated and that usage numbers may lag behind live values. It does not mention what happens if the orderId is invalid or any potential errors, which would add transparency. Overall, it's adequate but not rich.

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 sentences long. The first sentence clearly states the action and resource; the second elaborates on the use case and data included. No unnecessary words, and it is front-loaded with the core purpose.

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?

Given 5 parameters and no output schema, the description explains what the returned data includes (status, enabled protocols, attached resource counts, usage numbers). It is complete for a list endpoint, though it could explicitly mention pagination parameters (already in schema).

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%, so the schema already documents all parameters. The description adds context about pagination and usage lag but does not add new meaning beyond the schema descriptions. Baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 'Retrieve a paginated list of mailboxes belonging to a mail order,' which specifies the verb (retrieve), resource (list of mailboxes), and scope (belonging to a mail order). Among sibling tools like mail_listAliases and mail_listForwarders, this uniquely identifies a list of mailboxes.

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 advises using this endpoint 'to monitor mailboxes of your mail service,' providing clear context on when to use it. However, it does not explicitly mention when not to use it or suggest alternative sibling tools, though the context is sufficient for an agent.

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