channel_select

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

With no annotations, the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden and does add one useful detail: exclusive=True deselects others, implying multi-select when false. However, it doesn't disclose whether the tool returns anything, errors on invalid indices, or whether the selection persists or affects subsequent operations.

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 with no filler. Every word earns its place, and the exclusive behavior is integrated cleanly without bloat.

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 two-parameter tool with no annotations and no output schema, the definition is minimal but mostly serviceable: an agent can infer the selection action and grasp the exclusive option. It still leaves index semantics and exclusive=False behavior implicit, and doesn't mention whether the selection is additive or has UI-level effects.

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 0%, so the description must compensate for missing parameter documentation. It explains exclusive's effect, but says nothing about what index refers to, valid ranges, or zero-based numbering, leaving the core parameter underspecified.

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 states a clear verb+object ('Select channel') and includes the key exclusive behavior. It doesn't explicitly differentiate from siblings like channel_selected or ui_selected_channel, but the action-oriented wording makes the intended operation unambiguous.

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?

There is no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as channel_selected or other channel_* tools. The description doesn't mention prerequisites, exclusions, or context in which channel_select is the appropriate choice.

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