Update a publisher

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

With no annotations beyond the title, the description alone must convey behavioral traits. It correctly indicates a write operation via 'Update' and specifies the partial update pattern. It does not disclose auth requirements, rate limits, or reversibility, but the core behavior is clear.

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 with two sentences, front-loading the main action and providing a critical usage hint. Every word earns its place, with no unnecessary detail.

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 tool has two required parameters and no output schema, the description covers the input behavior adequately. However, it omits any mention of return values, error conditions, or prerequisites, which might leave an agent uncertain about the response or preconditions. Slightly below minimal completeness for a mutation 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 description adds modest value beyond the input schema by explaining the `fields` parameter's purpose (partial update). However, `publisher_id` lacks any description in the schema and is not mentioned in the description. Schema coverage is 50%, so the description partially compensates but does not fully cover missing parameter context.

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 'Update a publisher' with a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like create_publisher, delete_publisher, and get_publisher, leaving no ambiguity about its function.

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 advises to 'Supply only the fields you want to change in `fields`,' which clarifies the partial update behavior. However, it does not explicitly mention when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., create_publisher for new publishers), leaving some implicit context.

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