slack_lists_update

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

No annotations are present, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only says 'Update a list,' omitting any information about permissions required, whether the update is destructive, side effects, or response details. This is a significant 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 extremely concise (three words) but under-specified. True conciseness balances brevity with completeness; here, critical information is missing, making it insufficient for effective tool selection.

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 lack of annotations, a schema with no parameter descriptions, and no explanation of return values (despite an output schema), the description is vastly incomplete. It fails to provide the context needed for correct invocation.

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 has 0% description coverage, and the description adds no meaning beyond parameter names (list_id, name, description). It does not explain that name and description are optional, or that list_id is required. The names are self-explanatory but the description could clarify the update behavior.

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 'Update a list.' clearly specifies the action (update) and resource (a list), distinguishing it from create or delete siblings like slack_lists_create. However, it lacks specificity about the type of list (e.g., Slack list) and what attributes can be updated.

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 usage guidance is provided. The description does not mention when to use this tool versus alternatives like slack_lists_items_update for updating items, or other update tools among siblings. A note on prerequisites or context would improve clarity.

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