kubectl_describe

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint: true, so the agent knows this is a safe read operation. The description adds that it describes resources, which is consistent. It does not mention output format or other behavioral traits, but with the annotation covering the safety profile, a 3 is appropriate.

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 sentence of 11 words. It conveys the action and essential parameters without any filler, making it extremely concise and front-loaded.

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 tool has 5 parameters (2 required) and no output schema. The description covers the core purpose and the most important parameters, but it does not explain the output format or how to use optional parameters. For a read-only describe tool, this is minimally adequate but could be improved by noting that output is detailed resource information.

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 all parameters are described in the schema. The description summarizes three parameters (resource type, name, namespace) but does not add extra meaning beyond the schema for optional parameters like context or allNamespaces. Baseline 3 is correct when schema covers all parameters.

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 uses the specific verb 'describe' and identifies the resource as 'Kubernetes resources'. It clearly lists the key parameters (resource type, name, optionally namespace), making the tool's purpose unambiguous and distinguishing it from sibling tools like kubectl_get or kubectl_logs.

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 implies usage by stating 'describe...by resource type, name, and optionally namespace', but it does not explicitly state when to choose this tool over alternatives (e.g., kubectl_get for listing, kubectl_logs for logs) or when not to use it. The context is clear but lacks explicit guidance.

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