Update Column

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

Adds important behavioral detail about optimistic concurrency control and the revision field, which is not captured by annotations. Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false and destructiveHint=false, consistent with an update 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 sentences: first states purpose, second provides critical workflow. No unnecessary words. Well-structured and front-loaded.

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?

Covers core concept and the revision pattern. Mentions get_column_type_info for settings schema. Lacks explicit success return value, but overall adequate for a mutation tool with no output schema.

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 coverage is 100%, so parameters are fully documented structurally. The description adds a high-level summary and context for the revision field but does not add significant semantic meaning beyond the 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 explicitly states the verb 'Update' and the resource 'existing monday.com column', listing specific properties (title, description, settings). It distinguishes from sibling tools like create_column and delete_column.

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?

Provides explicit guidance on the prerequisite step ('fetch the current revision via get_board_schema first') and retry logic on failure. Does not explicitly state when not to use it, but the context is clear.

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