springboot_analyze_startup

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, and idempotentHint=true, so the safety profile is covered. The description adds useful context that it works from a non-destructive startup snapshot and does not perform a POST that drains buffers, though it does not discuss permissions or limits.

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 compact sentence separated by semicolons, front-loading what is returned and following with usage boundaries. Every clause adds distinct information with no 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?

The output schema and rich annotations cover return values and safety, and the description adequately explains purpose and exclusions. However, for a tool with seven parameters and low schema description coverage, the missing parameter guidance leaves a meaningful gap in invocation guidance.

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 description coverage is only 29%, and the description does not explain any of the seven parameters such as cursor, maxDepth, targetId, maxResults, or minDurationMs. With most parameters undocumented in the schema and nothing added in the description, an agent gets little semantic guidance for configuring the call.

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 states a specific resource and return contents: a non-destructive startup snapshot with version, timeline span, slowest steps, and parent-child chain. It also distinguishes the tool from request-latency analysis and a buffer-draining POST, so its diagnostic role is clear without opening the schema.

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 explicitly says to call it when troubleshooting slow startup and explicitly excludes current request latency and buffer-draining POST behavior. It does not name a specific sibling alternative, but the usage boundary is otherwise clear.

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