ZIP MCP Server

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the tool retrieves metadata, implying a read-only operation, but doesn't specify if it requires file permissions, handles errors (e.g., invalid paths), or returns specific data formats. For a tool with no annotations, this leaves significant behavioral gaps.

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, efficient sentence with no wasted words. It is front-loaded with the core purpose ('Get metadata information'), making it easy to parse. Every part of the sentence contributes directly to understanding the tool's function.

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 no annotations, no output schema, and moderate schema coverage (50%), the description is incomplete. It doesn't explain what metadata is returned (e.g., file list, sizes, timestamps), error handling, or operational constraints. For a tool with two parameters and potential complexity (e.g., encrypted files), more context is needed for effective use.

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 description coverage is 50%, with the 'input' parameter documented as 'ZIP file path' and 'options.password' as 'Password for encrypted ZIP'. The description adds no additional parameter semantics beyond what the schema provides. Since coverage is moderate, the baseline score of 3 reflects adequate but minimal value from the description.

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 verb ('Get') and resource ('metadata information of a local ZIP file'), making the purpose understandable. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'compress' or 'decompress', which operate on ZIP files but perform different actions. The description is specific but lacks sibling distinction.

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 like 'compress' or 'decompress'. It doesn't mention prerequisites (e.g., file existence), exclusions, or contextual cues. The agent must infer usage from the tool name and description alone, which is insufficient for optimal selection.

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