browser_switch_tab

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure, but it only states the action without revealing side effects on the active tab, behavior for invalid indices, or dependencies like an active browser connection. This is a significant gap for a tool that mutates browser state.

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, direct sentence that is perfectly concise and front-loaded. It contains no extraneous words or repetition, making it highly efficient for a simple tool.

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?

Even though the tool is simple with one parameter and no output schema, the description is incomplete for practical use. It omits usage guidance, error handling, and any mention of how to determine valid tab indices. While the schema covers the parameter, the overall context is under-specified.

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 input schema fully describes the sole parameter 'index' with type and semantic meaning ('Tab index starting from 0'), so the baseline of 3 applies. The description itself adds no additional parameter-specific information, but the schema already provides adequate coverage.

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 'Switch to another tab.' clearly identifies both the action (switching) and the resource (tab), which distinguishes it from sibling tools like browser_new_tab, browser_close_tab, and browser_list_tabs. However, it does not explicitly state that the switch changes the active tab, which leaves a slight ambiguity.

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, such as listing tabs first via browser_list_tabs or noting that it is distinct from navigation. There is no mention of prerequisites, exclusions, or typical scenarios.

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