credential_ceremony

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It discloses the dual return behaviors (list vs. detailed steps) and specifies what 'detailed steps' includes ('token format info, and documentation links'). Could improve by mentioning if results are cached or if the tool is idempotent, but solid disclosure of output content.

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?

Three sentences, perfectly structured: 1) Core purpose, 2) Parameter-dependent behavior and return details, 3) Workflow usage guideline. No redundancy with schema. Every sentence earns its place with high information density.

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 single-parameter discovery tool, coverage is strong. Compensates for missing output schema by describing return values ('detailed steps, token format info, documentation links'). Establishes relationship to 'agent_vault' in the ecosystem. Minor gap: could explicitly contrast with 'check_credentials' sibling, but sufficient given complexity.

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 adds value by explaining the functional consequence of providing vs omitting the parameter (specific steps vs. list all), reinforcing the conditional logic. It adds semantic context about the examples (OpenAI, Stripe) indicating these are external service credentials.

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?

States a specific verb ('Get') and resource ('step-by-step instructions for obtaining API credentials'). The name 'credential_ceremony' is jargon, but the description clarifies it means instructions for obtaining API credentials. It implicitly distinguishes from sibling 'check_credentials' (which verifies existing creds) by focusing on the acquisition process.

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?

Provides explicit temporal guidance: 'Use this before agent_vault execute mode.' This establishes a clear workflow prerequisite. Also clearly documents the dual behavior: without service param it lists all ceremonies, with it returns specific steps.

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