Edit Cloudflare Record

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

The annotations already declare readOnlyHint=false, destructiveHint=true, and idempotentHint=true. The description adds important behavioral context: partial updates (omitted fields retain current values), the response includes both new and previous records, and dry_run support. This goes beyond annotations, though it does not mention permissions or rate 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 four concise sentences, front-loaded with the core action and followed by key behavioral details. Every sentence adds value without redundancy.

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?

Given 11 parameters, nested objects, no output schema, and low schema coverage, the description is partially complete. It covers purpose, partial update, response structure, and dry_run, but omits explanations for most parameters and does not address potential edge cases or permissions. It is adequate but with clear gaps.

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 45%, so the description should compensate, but it only adds meaning for record_id (source) and dry_run (support). It does not explain the many DNS record fields (e.g., data, priority, type) beyond what little the schema provides, leaving significant gaps for a tool with 11 parameters.

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 'Update a DNS record in a domain's Cloudflare zone', specifying the verb (update) and resource (DNS record), and distinguishes it from sibling tools like create_cloudflare_record and delete_cloudflare_record. It also mentions partial update semantics, which further clarifies the operation.

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 description provides guidance by indicating that record_id should be obtained from get_cloudflare_records, implicitly directing the user to use that tool first. It also mentions dry_run support, which is a usage consideration. However, it does not explicitly compare with alternatives like create or delete, so it lacks full when/when-not coverage.

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