list_sample_templates

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It discloses key behavioral traits: 'Paginated list' reveals output structure and pagination behavior, and 'template metadata' indicates return content. However, it doesn't mention permissions, rate limits, or whether the operation is safe/read-only (though implied by 'list').

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 perfectly structured: purpose statement first, usage guidance second, return behavior third. Every sentence adds value with zero redundancy. At three concise lines, it's front-loaded and efficiently communicates essential information.

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 a simple listing tool with 1 parameter, no annotations, but an output schema exists (so return values needn't be explained), the description is reasonably complete. It covers purpose, usage context, and output behavior. The main gap is lack of parameter semantics, but for a single optional parameter with a default, this is acceptable.

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 description coverage is 0%, but the description adds no parameter information beyond what the schema provides. The single parameter 'page_size' is undocumented in both schema and description. With 0 parameters documented, the baseline is 4, but since there is 1 parameter with no semantics explained, it drops to 3.

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's purpose: 'Lists available sample templates for reuse' specifies the verb (list) and resource (sample templates). It distinguishes from siblings like 'create_sample_template' (creation) and 'get_sample_template' (single retrieval), but doesn't explicitly contrast with 'list_samples' (different resource).

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 clear usage context: 'Browse existing templates before creating new samples' indicates when to use it (pre-creation exploration). It doesn't explicitly state when NOT to use it or name alternatives, but the context is sufficiently clear for a listing tool.

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