list_shopping_items

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

Without annotations, the description must disclose behavior. It only says 'list', implying read-only, but omits pagination details (page/per_page), ordering, and result structure. The agent has no information about limits or default behavior.

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?

One sentence, front-loaded, but does not fully earn its place; it omits critical details like pagination. Could be expanded without losing conciseness.

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 three parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is insufficient. It ignores pagination, defaults, and return format, leaving the agent unable to use the tool correctly for non-default cases.

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 has three parameters with no descriptions (0% coverage). The description only implies list_id via 'optionally filtered', but does not explain page or per_page. This fails to add meaning beyond the schema's basic definition.

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 tool lists shopping items and optionally filters by list. This distinguishes it from siblings like list_shopping_lists and get_shopping_item. However, it could be more specific about the scope (e.g., all items vs. per list) and pagination behavior.

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 guidance on when to use this tool vs. alternatives (e.g., get_shopping_item for a single item, list_shopping_lists for lists). The filtering hint is present but excludes when-not scenarios or prerequisites.

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