Create an album

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

There are no readOnly or destructive annotations, so the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden. It does disclose meaningful side effects: the album is private, belongs to this app, and is created empty, which explains why it is editable later. It doesn't mention permissions or reversibility, but for a simple create action this is solid context.

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?

Three short sentences, front-loaded with the core verb-object, followed by ownership/privacy context and next-step usage. Every sentence earns its place; there is no redundant wording or filler.

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 simple 2-parameter create tool with no output schema, the description covers what is created, the privacy and ownership model, and how to proceed afterward. It does not explicitly describe the return value or name the sibling create_album_with_media, but the reference to passing album_id when uploading implies the created album exposes an album_id, which is enough in context.

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?

Both parameters are fully documented in the schema, so the description does not need to repeat parameter details. The mention of album_id is useful workflow guidance but does not add semantic detail about this tool's own parameters beyond what the schema already provides.

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 and resource: it creates a new, empty album in the user's Google Photos. It also distinguishes itself from siblings by emphasizing 'empty', 'private', and 'belongs to this app', which separates it from create_album_with_media and the album management tools.

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?

It explains the intended workflow: create the empty album, then add items later via add_to_album or by passing album_id when uploading. It does not explicitly name create_album_with_media as the alternative when an album should be created with items, so it lacks an explicit when-not-to-use statement.

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