update_siren

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

With no annotations, the description carries the behavioral burden and does well by disclosing the read-before/no-op/read-after pattern, the no-op on matching settings, and the UNIFI_PROTECT_MUTATIONS_ENABLED gate. It does not detail permissions or error behavior, but the core mutation behavior is transparent.

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?

Compact and front-loaded: the first sentence states the operation and endpoint, and the parameter notes are dense but each earns its place. No redundant filler or repetition of schema fields.

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?

Covers all three required parameters with sourcing and format details, plus key behavioral context and mutation gating. It does not explicitly state that settings should be non-empty or describe behavior when UNIFI_PROTECT_MUTATIONS_ENABLED is false, leaving minor gaps for a mutating tool with no annotations.

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 0%, so the description fully compensates: it defines host as console name, ID, or composite MAC:numericId format; marks siren_id as required and tells the agent where to obtain it; and narrows settings to name, volume 1-100, and ledSettings. This is far more useful than the bare string schemas.

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 action ('Update siren settings') with the exact HTTP method and path (PATCH /v1/sirens/{id}), making the resource and operation unambiguous. It also distinguishes this configuration tool from siren control siblings like siren_play, siren_stop, and siren_test_sound.

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 useful context such as obtaining siren_id from list_sirens and the no-write-when-all-match optimization, but does not explicitly state when to prefer this tool over alternatives or when not to use it. The usage guidance is implied rather than explicit.

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