start_recording

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

With no annotations, the description must carry behavioral transparency. It discloses idempotency and automatic lap storage, but it does not specify what happens if a session is not running or if recording is already active. While idempotent implies safe re-call, the behavioral description is adequate but not rich.

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 extremely concise at two sentences (including the idempotent note). Every sentence adds value: purpose, side-effect, and behavioral trait. No wasted words, front-loaded with the core action.

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 tool has no parameters and an output schema exists, the description is largely complete. It covers purpose, key behavior (idempotent), and a side effect (lap storage). It implicitly requires a running session. A brief mention of prerequisites or error cases would raise this further, but for a simple tool it is sufficient.

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 has 0 parameters and 100% schema coverage, giving a baseline of 4 per the rules. The description adds no parameter-level detail because none is needed, but the context provided (idempotent, automatic storage) indirectly informs behavior around parameters.

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 exact action: 'Start recording telemetry from the running Assetto Corsa session.' It uses a specific verb and resource, and the mention of automatic lap storage further distinguishes this tool from siblings like stop_recording or live_snapshot.

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 implies usage context by referring to 'the running Assetto Corsa session.' It does not explicitly contrast with siblings (e.g., when to use stop_recording instead) but the purpose is clear. The idempotent hint suggests safe multiple calls, which is helpful but not a full guideline.

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