List Autoreplies

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

With no annotations provided, the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It merely says 'List autoreplies' which implies a read operation, but it does not state that no modifications are made, what the return format is, or whether filters apply. This lack of disclosure is a significant gap given the absence of annotations.

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 concise sentence that effectively communicates the essential purpose. It is front-loaded with the verb and resource, and every word contributes meaning.

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 operation with one documented parameter, the description is minimally adequate. However, with no output schema, the description does not mention what is returned (e.g., an array of autoreplies) or any additional context such as filtering, which would enhance completeness.

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 has one parameter (order_id) with a complete description 'Mail order ID', giving 100% schema coverage. The tool description adds no extra parameter meaning beyond this, so the baseline 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 the action (List), the resource (autoreplies), and the scope (for an order). It distinguishes this from sibling tools like mail_autoreplies_create, update, and delete, as well as other mail list tools.

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 the tool is used to retrieve autoreplies for a specific order, but it does not explicitly mention when to use this over alternatives or provide any exclusions. There are no prerequisites stated beyond having an order_id, which is implied.

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