select_environment

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose behavioral traits; it does state this is a state-changing operation ('set active'). However, it omits important details such as whether the selection persists across sessions, whether the index is zero-based, or any side effects like invalidating previously active environments. This is a minimal viable disclosure.

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 states the action and critical parameter origin without any filler. Every word contributes value, making it highly efficient.

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?

The tool has one simple parameter and an output schema, so the description need not explain return values. It covers the essential usage and parameter source. A minor gap is the lack of mention about side effects or persistence, but given the tool's simplicity, it is near-complete.

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 schema provides only type 'integer' with no description (0% coverage). The description compensates by explaining that the index comes from list_environments, tying the parameter to a concrete source and usage. It could add clarity about indexing base (e.g., zero-based), but the semantic link is valuable.

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 target resource ('authentication profile/Dataverse environment'), and specifies that it activates the environment based on an index. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like list_environments by focusing on selection rather than enumeration.

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 implicitly instructs the agent to use list_environments first by stating 'index from list_environments', providing a clear workflow. It does not explicitly mention when not to use this tool, but the context is sufficient for a tool of this simplicity.

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