Volume Down

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 does not disclose potential side effects (e.g., volume range limits, whether it affects media sessions), device targeting behavior, or what happens if steps exceeds available volume.

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 brief (one sentence) and front-loads the key action. The backticks around 'steps' are inconsistent but minor. It is concise but lacks critical details.

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 an output schema but no annotations, and the description must cover behavioral context. It omits device semantics, possible errors, and effects on other volumes, making it incomplete for reliable use.

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 0%, and the description only explains 'steps' implicitly through the verb, but 'device' is entirely unexplained. There is no guidance on how device affects the operation or the units/range for steps.

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 verb (lower), the resource (music volume), and the controlled parameter (steps). It distinguishes from volume_up and mute by indicating it decreases volume, though it doesn't explicitly mention alternatives.

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 for lowering music volume but provides no explicit context on when to use this tool versus volume_up or mute, and no mention of device selection or prerequisites.

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