notion_update_database

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the behavioral disclosure burden. It does a good job explaining mutation semantics, including that empty title/description values preserve current values, that null removes a property, and how type changes and select-option recoloring work. It does not cover permissions, reversibility, or side effects beyond the schema changes.

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 front-loaded with the core operation and then structured as a parameter reference with compact examples. The examples are necessary because the schema provides no parameter descriptions, and every section contributes useful invocation guidance.

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 lack of annotations, zero schema description coverage, and the presence of an output schema, the description is largely complete for invocation. It covers all parameters and key mutation semantics, though it omits permission requirements and explicit reversibility warnings for destructive property removals.

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%, so the description must compensate. It documents all four parameters meaningfully: database_id identifies the target, title and description explain empty-string behavior, and properties_json is explained with concrete Notion API format examples for adding, removing, renaming, retyping, and recoloring properties.

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 a specific verb and resource: update a Notion database's title, description, or property schema. It clearly identifies the fields being changed but does not explicitly distinguish itself from closely related siblings such as notion_create_database or notion_describe_database beyond recommending a pre-check.

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?

It gives a clear usage prerequisite by advising the agent to use notion_describe_database first to inspect the current schema. It also notes that multiple changes can be combined in one call. It does not state when not to use this tool or contrast it with alternative update tools.

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