ado_list_releases

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

The description does not add behavioral traits beyond the annotation readOnlyHint=true, which already indicates read-only behavior. No mention of authorization, rate limits, or side effects, leaving the annotation to carry the full burden.

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?

A single, concise sentence with no wasted words. It efficiently conveys the core functionality.

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 no output schema and 3 optional parameters, the description lacks details on return format, pagination, or ordering. For a list tool, this information would help the agent interpret the response, but it is missing.

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 100%, so the tool description does not need to explain parameters. The mention of 'filtered by definition' reflects the definitionId parameter, but adds no new meaning. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 'List releases' with optional filtering by definition, which directly matches the tool name and distinguishes it from siblings like 'ado_get_release' and 'ado_list_release_definitions'. However, it does not elaborate on what a release is in the context of Azure DevOps.

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 versus alternatives such as 'ado_get_release' for a single release or 'ado_list_release_definitions' for definitions. The description only implies usage for listing releases with optional filtering.

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