sophos_update_mobile_device_property

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

With no annotations provided, the description must fully disclose behavior. It indicates mutation ('Update') but does not mention whether the property must exist (implied by 'existing'), what happens if it does not exist, any required permissions, or whether the update is idempotent. The character limit for 'value' (max 4096 chars) is only in the schema, not in the description.

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 a single, concise sentence with no unnecessary words. It is front-loaded with the verb and resource. It could be improved by adding a brief note about parameter purpose or behavior, but it is efficiently structured.

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 the tool has 4 required parameters and no output schema, the description is minimally adequate. It explains the core purpose but lacks details on error handling, return values, relationship to related tools (e.g., listing properties), and prerequisites. It meets the minimum but leaves gaps.

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% with each parameter having a description. The description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, simply restating the identifier concept. Baseline of 3 is appropriate as the schema already provides basic semantics.

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 the value') and the resource ('existing custom device property identified by its key'). It distinguishes the tool from siblings like sophos_update_mobile_device (which updates the device itself) and sophos_create_mobile_device_property (which creates a new property).

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 guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as 'sophos_create_mobile_device_property' for new properties or 'sophos_delete_mobile_device_property'. There is no mention of prerequisites, when it is appropriate to update, or when to avoid using it.

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