vcc_run_status

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

No annotations are given, so the description must fully disclose behavior. It only states 'Report runStatus' with no mention of side effects, idempotency, or whether it affects simulator state. This is inadequate for a tool that modifies no state but still needs transparency about its read-only nature.

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 extremely concise at 5 words, but it borders on under-specification. While it is front-loaded, it does not earn its place by providing sufficient detail; it omits crucial context about the return format or use cases.

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 the existence of an output schema, the description should explain the semantics of 'runStatus' to help the agent interpret results. It fails to do so, and the presence of sibling vcc_status creates ambiguity about what this tool returns versus that one. The description is too brief for a complete understanding.

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?

There are no parameters, and the baseline score is 4 per guidelines. The description adds the meaning 'current simulator state' beyond the empty schema, so it meets the baseline.

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 reports the current simulator state ('runStatus'). It uses a specific verb and resource, and the name implies a query operation, which distinguishes it from siblings like vcc_run (run simulation) and vcc_step (step simulation). However, it could be more explicit about what 'runStatus' specifically contains.

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 vcc_status or vcc_eval. The agent has to infer usage from the name alone, which is insufficient for choosing correctly among siblings.

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