alexa_get_list_itemsRetrieve all items from a specific Amazon Alexa list using its list ID. Access current shopping or to-do list contents to manage tasks and smart home routines.
Get all items from a specific Alexa list.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| listId | Yes | The list ID (use alexa_list_lists to find it) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.2.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, and the description only states a read operation ('get all items') without disclosing any side effects, authentication needs, or rate limits. The description carries the full burden but adds little beyond the basic action.
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?
A single, front-loaded sentence with no extraneous words. It efficiently conveys the purpose and the required parameter.
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 tool's simplicity (one parameter, no output schema), the description is sufficient for the agent to understand its purpose and how to call it. However, lack of return value description slightly reduces 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 schema covers the parameter 'listId' with a description, but the description adds value by instructing to 'use alexa_list_lists to find it', which provides helpful context beyond the schema alone.
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 'Get all items from a specific Alexa list' clearly states the verb (Get) and resource (items from an Alexa list), distinguishing it from siblings like alexa_list_lists (lists) and alexa_add_list_item (adds items).
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 explicit guidance on when or when not to use this tool. The parameter description hints at using alexa_list_lists to obtain the list ID, but overall usage context is minimal and implied rather than stated.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.