splunk_list_indexes

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It usefully discloses that only accessible indexes are listed and that disk size, event count, and disabled status are included, but it does not discuss read-only behavior, permission scoping beyond 'accessible', or pagination behavior beyond naming the offset parameter.

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 front-loaded with the core action and return fields, then gives a short Args section. There is little waste, though the Args formatting is slightly more verbose than a single compact sentence would be.

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 read-style listing tool with an output schema, both optional parameters documented, and a clear statement of returned fields, the description is largely complete. It could be stronger with explicit sibling differentiation and pagination behavior, but the essential context is present.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It briefly explains both parameters: count as the number of indexes to list and offset as the pagination offset. That covers both parameters but adds only minimal semantic depth and no constraints or interaction details.

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 verb and resource: 'List accessible Splunk indexes' and names the returned fields (disk size, event count, disabled status). It is clear what the tool does, though it does not explicitly distinguish itself from nearby tools such as splunk_get_index or splunk_index_stats.

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 implied usage is to enumerate indexes, but the description gives no explicit when-to-use guidance or alternatives. With siblings like splunk_get_index and splunk_index_stats, an agent could benefit from knowing when list-indexes is preferred over those alternatives.

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