configure_optimizer

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

With no annotations, the description partially compensates by describing config locking and passphrase protection. However, it does not disclose side effects, persistence, permissions, or return behavior. The description is adequate but not rich.

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 sentence that is concise and front-loaded. It lists key parameters efficiently. Minor improvement could be a clearer separation of locking, but overall well-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's complexity (15 params, no output schema), the description covers the main purpose and locking but omits context like defaults, optionality, return value, and relationship to siblings like optimize_prompt. Incomplete for an agent to fully understand behavior.

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%, so baseline is 3. The description lists a subset of parameters but adds no new meaning beyond the schema descriptions (e.g., locking is also detailed in schema). It does not enhance parameter understanding.

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 configures optimizer behavior and lists specific aspects (mode, threshold, strictness, etc.). It uses a specific verb ('Configure') and resource ('optimizer behavior'), and the inclusion of locking distinguishes it from sibling tools like optimize_prompt.

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, no prerequisites, and no exclusions. For a tool with 15 parameters and many siblings, this gap is significant.

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