ga4_update_audience

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden. It discloses mutation behavior, the need for an environment variable (GA4_MCP_ENABLE_WRITES=true) and confirm=true, and explains the updateMask derivation. It could add response details, but covers key behavioral aspects.

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 two concise sentences, front-loads essential information, and contains no fluff. Every sentence adds value.

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 no output schema and no annotations, the description provides a reasonable level of completeness: it covers mutation behavior, prerequisites, and field constraints. It could mention that the audience must exist and what the response looks like, but is adequate for a simple update tool.

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 67% (4 of 6 parameters described). The description adds meaning beyond schema: it clarifies that displayName and description are the only mutable fields, that updateMask is derived from supplied fields, and that the body parameter is for nested/advanced fields. This compensates for undocumented parameters.

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 it's a write operation to update an audience, specifying that only displayName and description are mutable and filters are immutable. This differentiates it from sibling tools like ga4_create_audience and ga4_archive_audience.

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 explicitly notes that only displayName and description can be changed, and that filters are immutable, guiding when to use this tool. It also mentions the prerequisite environment variable and confirmation flag. However, it does not explicitly advise using ga4_create_audience for filter changes.

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