ha_get_entities_by_area

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully cover behavioral traits. It mentions 'resolving device→area inheritance', but does not disclose permissions, side effects, or rate limits. More detail on inheritance resolution behavior is needed for safe usage.

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 one sentence of 16 words, with no filler. Every word contributes to explaining the tool's purpose and parameter usage.

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 tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description covers the core functionality. However, without annotations, additional details about inheritance resolution behavior and expected output format would increase completeness.

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?

The single parameter 'area' has no description in the schema (0% coverage). The description adds that it accepts 'name or area_id', providing essential semantic context beyond the schema's 'string' type, fully compensating for the lack of schema documentation.

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 entity_ids for a given area by name or area_id, and mentions resolving device-to-area inheritance. It distinguishes from sibling tools like ha_list_areas (which lists areas) and ha_get_entity (detailed entity data).

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 explains how to specify the area (by name or area_id) and implicitly when to use the tool (to get entities in a room/area). However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternatives like ha_get_states for all entities, which would be clearer guidance.

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