alexa_list_smarthome_devicesRetrieve a complete list of smart home devices in your Alexa account, including lights, switches, and sensors, to identify available devices for control.
List all smart home devices registered in Alexa (lights, switches, sensors, etc).
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.2.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description implies no side effects by using the verb 'list', but it does not explicitly state whether the operation is read-only or if it causes any changes. This is adequate but lacks explicit safety guarantees.
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 covers the core functionality without extraneous words. It could benefit from a slightly more structured format, but it is appropriately 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?
Given the simplicity of the tool (no parameters, no output schema), the description minimally conveys what it does. However, it omits details about the response format or whether the list includes identifiers and statuses, which somewhat reduces completeness for an agent.
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, so baseline 4 applies. The description adds no parameter information, which is acceptable since none exist.
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' and the resource 'smart home devices', with examples of device types. It distinguishes from the sibling 'alexa_list_devices' by specifying 'smart home', though it does not explicitly exclude other device types.
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 guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'alexa_list_devices' or other listing tools. The description does not mention conditions or context for invocation.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.