wp_list_widgets

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

With no annotations, the description must carry the behavioral burden. It conveys a read-style listing operation and hints at return content ('including structured advertisement inventory metadata'), but does not disclose return shape, pagination, error behavior, or whether any side effects occur.

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?

A single sentence with no filler: the action, optional filter, and a distinguishing output detail are all front-loaded. Every phrase earns its place.

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 simple list tool with one optional parameter and no annotations, the description is functional but minimal. It lacks return-format details and does not reference sibling tools that could disambiguate the sidebar value, though the low complexity keeps this from being a major gap.

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 0%, so the description must clarify the parameter. It does add meaning by marking sidebar as optional and as a filter, but it does not specify whether the value is an ID, slug, or name, or how it relates to wp_list_sidebars.

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 uses a specific verb ('List') and resource ('widgets'), and adds a filtering dimension ('optionally by sidebar'). It is clearly distinct from sibling tools like wp_get_widget or wp_list_sidebars, though it does not explicitly name an alternative.

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 guidance is provided about when to prefer this tool over siblings such as wp_get_widget or wp_list_sidebars, and there are no stated exclusions or prerequisites. The only contextual cue is the optional sidebar parameter, which is not framed as a decision rule.

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