set_transition

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral transparency. It states the tool modifies default transitions for all prototype links on a frame, but does not disclose whether it overwrites existing transitions, is reversible, or requires specific permissions. The agent is left guessing about side effects.

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, concise sentence without wasted words. It efficiently states the tool's purpose. However, it could be slightly more structured by including a brief usage note, but it remains highly readable and front-loaded.

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 4 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is minimally adequate. It explains the primary function but lacks details on return values, error conditions, or behavior when no prototype links exist. It covers the essentials but leaves gaps.

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 input schema has 100% coverage, with each parameter having a description, type, and enums where applicable. The tool description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema. Baseline score of 3 is appropriate since the schema already does the heavy lifting.

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 action ('Set') and the specific resource ('default transition for all prototype links on a frame'). This is a precise verb+resource pairing, and it distinguishes the tool from siblings like create_prototype_link or remove_prototype_link, as no other tool handles setting default transitions.

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 vs alternatives, no prerequisites, and no exclusions. Given the extensive list of sibling tools, the agent would benefit from hints like 'Use this to apply a consistent transition to all links on a frame, instead of setting each individually.' Without this, the agent may misuse it.

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