list_notices

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 indicates a read-only listing operation, but does not explain return behavior, pagination, filtering, authentication needs, or how the listed notices are structured. This leaves the agent with only the word 'list' plus resource categories.

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 brief and front-loaded, with no filler or promotional language. However, the 'Args' line largely repeats the schema and adds no real value, so it is not perfectly 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?

For a simple one-parameter list operation, the description covers the resource and the required parameter, and the output schema presumably covers return shape. However, it lacks usage context, sibling differentiation, and any detail about filtering or special behavior, leaving the agent to infer when and how to invoke it.

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 only parameter explanation is 'school_id: School ID', which simply restates the parameter name and adds no meaningful detail beyond the schema's integer type. The description fails to clarify where to obtain school_id or any constraints.

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 uses a specific verb and resource ('List alerts and notices') and scopes it to a school, with concrete categories (urgent alerts, secure documents, consent forms). It is clear about what the tool does, though it does not explicitly differentiate itself from sibling 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?

There is no guidance about when to use this tool versus sibling tools like list_forms, list_signups, or list_polls. The description only implies that it is for school alerts and notices, but provides no exclusions, prerequisites, or alternative routing.

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