reindex_apple_mail

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden for behavioral traits. It only says 'trigger an indexer run' and explains the restart parameter, but omits important behavioral details like whether the operation is safe to repeat, whether it requires specific permissions, or if it has side effects on system performance. This is insufficient for safe invocation.

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 extremely concise: two sentences front-loaded with the core purpose and the key parameter nuance. No wasted words.

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 tool with one parameter and no output schema or annotations, the description is somewhat complete in covering the action and parameter. However, it fails to provide context about idempotency, expected duration, or whether the indexer run is blocking or fire-and-forget, leaving gaps for an AI 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?

Schema coverage is 100% and the schema already describes the restart parameter well. The description's sentence 'Pass restart=true to stop the current task first' adds minimal extra meaning beyond the schema, so the baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 tool triggers an indexer run for Apple Mail, which is specific and actionable. However, it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'get_mail_index_status' or 'clear_mail_index', which could be confused.

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 mentions the restart parameter for stopping an existing task, providing some usage context. But it does not specify when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., checking index status or clearing index), nor does it mention prerequisites or pitfalls.

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