server_status

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

The annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the safe read-only nature is covered. The description adds the 'local' and 'process status' scope, but does not provide additional behavioral detail such as what exactly the status output contains or whether it might throw errors if no server is running. With the output schema present, the agent can likely infer return structure, so the description adds minimal but acceptable value.

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, front-loaded sentence delivers the essential meaning with no filler. It names the resource and the type of operation without unnecessary elaboration.

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 no-parameter, read-only status tool with an output schema present, the description is complete enough to guide correct invocation. There are no prerequisites, options, or alternatives that need clarifying beyond what the summary already provides.

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?

There are zero parameters, so the description has no parameter meaning to add. The baseline for no-parameter tools is 4, and there is no relevant gap to compensate for.

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 ('Return') and a clear resource ('local open.mp test server process status'), making the tool's function immediately obvious. It also differentiates itself from siblings server_start and server_stop by describing a read-only status check rather than a state-changing operation.

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 clearly implies the tool is for checking status rather than starting or stopping the server, which are the sibling operations. It does not explicitly state 'use this when you need to check status and not start/stop', but the context and naming make the intended use clear.

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