sophos_update_ips_exclusion

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It only states 'Update' implying mutation, but fails to mention idempotency, required existence, error conditions, or side effects. The description does not add behavioral context beyond the annotation-friendly action word.

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 12 words, front-loaded with the action and resource. Every word is necessary, with no redundancy or filler.

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 tool with 7 parameters (2 required) and no output schema, the description is too brief. It omits that tenant_id and exclusion_id are required to identify the exclusion, and does not explain how updates work (e.g., partial vs. full replacement, behavior when fields are omitted, return value). This leaves significant gaps for correct invocation.

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 input schema has 100% description coverage, so the schema already documents each parameter. The description adds a concise list of updatable fields but is slightly imprecise (e.g., 'ports' instead of 'local_ports and remote_ports'), offering no significant additional meaning beyond the schema.

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 action 'Update' on the resource 'IPS exclusion' and lists the specific mutable attributes (direction, remote addresses, ports, comment). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like sophos_create_ips_exclusion, sophos_delete_ips_exclusion, and sophos_update_exclusion.

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 no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., when to update vs. create or delete an IPS exclusion). It lacks context on prerequisites or exclusions.

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