Write node /etc/hosts

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

The description states 'Write' which implies overwriting, but it does not clarify whether the entire file is replaced, if existing entries are preserved, or if the operation is idempotent. Annotations do not provide additional safety hints. More detail on permissions and side effects is needed.

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, concise sentence. It is efficient and front-loaded, but could benefit from additional structure without becoming verbose.

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 description lacks essential context for a system file modification tool, such as impact on existing entries, required permissions, or response behavior. Given the low schema coverage and no output schema, the description is insufficient.

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?

Only the 'data' parameter's purpose is implied by the description as 'Full /etc/hosts contents'. The 'node' and 'digest' parameters are not described in the schema or the description. With only 33% schema coverage, the description fails to compensate.

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 action ('Write') and the resource ('/etc/hosts entries on a node'). It distinguishes from sibling tools like get_node_hosts, set_node_dns, etc., effectively communicating the tool's specific purpose.

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?

No explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance. The description implies usage for writing hosts file entries but does not contrast with similar tools like set_node_dns or set_node_time. No exclusions or prerequisites are mentioned.

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