asana_batch_update

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

The description adds no behavioral detail beyond 'update.' It does not state whether omitted fields remain unchanged, how html_notes interacts with notes, or whether custom_fields are merged or replaced. Annotations cover only mutation and non-destructiveness, so this missing partial-update semantics is a meaningful gap.

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 two concise, front-loaded sentences with no filler. The first sentence states the core action, and the second efficiently enumerates the field categories.

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?

Important context is missing, including partial-update behavior and what the tool returns (no output schema). It also does not guide the agent toward the right sibling tool or explain trade-offs vs. single-purpose setters, leaving an incomplete picture for a mutation with 9 parameters.

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 description coverage is 100%, so all parameters are already documented. The description adds little beyond grouping 'dates' and 'notes,' and the only cross-reference to another tool (custom_fields format) appears in the schema, not the description.

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 states a clear verb ('update'), a specific resource ('multiple task fields'), and lists the covered field categories, which maps well to the schema. It distinguishes itself from single-field helpers by signaling a combined update, but it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling asana_bulk_update or asana_batch_ops.

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 phrase 'in a single REST call' and 'Combines' weakly implies this should be used when multiple fields need updating together, providing some usage signal. However, no explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance is given, and alternatives like set_dates or set_custom_fields are not mentioned.

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