get_devices

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

No annotations are provided, so the description should disclose tool behavior. It states that all devices are retrieved, but does not mention potential issues like large result sets, pagination, authentication requirements, or that it is a read-only operation (though 'Get' implies it). The second sentence is about devices, not the tool's behavior.

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 concise and front-loaded with the action. The second sentence adds useful background about Itential Platform and devices, though it is not strictly necessary. It is well-structured and efficient.

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 simplicity of the tool (no parameters, output schema exists), the description covers the essential purpose. It lacks explicit statements about limitations such as no filtering or pagination behavior, but 'all devices' conveys the range. Overall, it is complete enough for a basic list tool.

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 tool has zero parameters and an empty schema, so there are no parameter semantics to explain. A baseline of 4 applies because the description does not need to clarify any inputs.

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 'Get all devices known to Itential Platform', specifying the exact resource and scope. The verb 'Get' and the noun 'devices' make the action unambiguous, and the description distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_device_groups or get_device_configuration.

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 provides context about what devices are but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives. It implies 'use when you need all devices', but there is no mention of when not to use it or references to other device-related tools.

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