ftp_list_connections

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states 'List all active connections with status' and does not clarify whether the operation is read-only, how connections are identified, what happens with no active connections, or any side effects. This minimal disclosure is insufficient for a tool with zero annotation support.

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, front-loaded sentence that captures the core purpose without unnecessary words. It is appropriately sized for a simple list operation with no parameters.

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?

There is no output schema, so the description should explain return values. It mentions 'status' but does not specify what fields or format the agent should expect, nor does it clarify the scope (e.g., all sessions vs. current session). This is adequate but leaves notable gaps for such a minimal tool.

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, and the schema description coverage is 100%. Per the rubric, a baseline of 4 is appropriate because there are no parameter semantics to clarify, and the description correctly avoids inventing details.

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 'List all active connections with status' uses a specific verb ('List') and clearly identifies the resource ('active connections') with an additional output detail ('status'). It distinguishes from sibling tools like ftp_connect and ftp_disconnect (actions) and ftp_connection_info (likely singular connection detail).

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as ftp_connection_info. It does not mention any prerequisites, exclusions, or context, leaving the agent to infer the appropriate usage.

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