get_ambient_noise

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses the core action (records via microphone, measures noise) and the return data, but does not mention whether audio is stored, whether microphone permission is required, or failure scenarios. It is not misleading but lacks depth expected for a hardware-accessing tool.

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 sentences: the first states the action, the second states the return values. It is concise, front-loaded, and contains no filler or redundant 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?

For a simple tool with one optional parameter and no output schema, the description provides essential return information (average dB, peak dB, classification) and the core functionality. It does not detail classification thresholds or microphone permissions, but the overall context is adequate for typical use.

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 only parameter, duration, is fully described in the input schema with default and max values. The tool description adds no additional meaning about this parameter, so the baseline of 3 applies since schema coverage is 100%.

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 records an audio sample via microphone and measures ambient noise in decibels, returning specific metrics. This explicitly differentiates it from sibling tools like capture_audio, which likely only records audio without analysis.

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 implies usage when ambient noise levels are needed, but it does not explicitly state when to use this tool over alternatives such as capture_audio, nor does it mention exclusions or prerequisites. The intended use case is reasonably clear from the purpose but lacks direct guidance.

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