list_scenes

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

Without annotations, the description is minimal: it lists scenes and optionally filters by group_id. It does not disclose any side effects, permission needs, rate limits, or pagination, but the behavior is straightforward for a list operation.

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?

Two concise sentences with no waste: the first states the verb and resource, the second adds conditional behavior and usage guidance. Front-loaded and 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?

Given the presence of an output schema, the description covers the primary behavior and parameter effect. It implies what happens without group_id and links to activate_scene. Minor omission of sorting, limits, or errors is acceptable for a simple list.

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?

With 0% schema coverage, the description fully compensates by explaining group_id as a room or zone id and the filtering behavior, adding meaning beyond the raw schema.

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 'List' and resource 'scenes', and distinguishes from siblings like list_lights and activate_scene by specifying the resource and optional filtering.

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 clear context for when to use the tool (to list scenes, optionally filtered by group_id) and links to activate_scene, but does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternatives.

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