shuffle

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It says 'Needs state' which hints at a required parameter but doesn't explain effects on the current queue, whether it persists, or returns. With no annotations and no output schema, the description is thin on 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?

Very short and front-loaded: it states the action then the requirement. It's appropriately brief for a simple toggle, though 'Needs state' is slightly awkward phrasing.

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 toggle tool with no annotations and no output schema, the description should clarify scope (which playback/device), default behavior, and return. It leaves key operational context unspecified.

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 coverage is 100% and the state parameter is fully described (true=on, false=off), and device_id is documented as optional from get_devices. The description adds nothing beyond the schema, so 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?

States a specific verb and resource: turning shuffle on or off. However, it gives no indication of scope (playback device?) despite a sibling play/pause toolset and a device_id parameter. It's understandable but vague about what exactly is being shuffled.

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 when-to-use guidance, no prerequisites, no mention of alternatives or state requirements beyond 'Needs state.' It doesn't clarify how shuffle interacts with play, get_playback_state, or which device it applies to.

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