patch_livetv_dvrs_by_dvr_id

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

The description adds no behavioral information beyond the annotations. Annotations indicate readOnlyHint=false, idempotentHint=true, and destructiveHint=false, but the description does not mention side effects, auth requirements, or consequences of the update. It merely restates the action without disclosing what settings are updated or if changes are reversible.

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 concise and front-loaded with the main action ('Update DVR Settings') followed by the HTTP path and parameter list. It contains no filler. However, it could be slightly more structured to explicitly separate the description from the technical details.

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 one simple integer parameter and an output schema, the description covers the essential operation and parameter definition. However, it lacks differentiation from similar sibling tools and does not indicate whether it's a partial vs full update, nor any prerequisites or error conditions. It is adequate but not comprehensive.

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 description provides a minimal explanation of the dvr_id parameter ('The ID of the DVR.'), which adds a bit of clarity beyond the schema's type and required flag. However, with 0% schema description coverage, the description could give more context, such as where to find the DVR ID or its format. It's adequate for a simple integer ID.

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 states 'Update DVR Settings' which clearly indicates a write operation on DVR resources. It is a specific verb+resource. However, it doesn't differentiate from the sibling update_livetv_dvrs_by_dvr_id, which likely does the same general update, so there is ambiguity about scope or partial update semantics.

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. It does not mention that this is the PATCH (partial update) variant, nor does it reference sibling tools like update_livetv_dvrs_by_dvr_id or update_livetv_dvrs_by_dvr_id_prefs for more specific updates. An agent would have to infer usage from the name.

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