list_notifications

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

With no annotations and a minimal description, the tool's behavioral traits are not disclosed. The agent learns nothing about side effects, authentication needs, pagination, or what the list contains. The description adds no value beyond the name.

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 very short, consisting of a single sentence with no fluff. However, it is under-specified to the point of being unhelpful. Conciseness is good, but structure and completeness are lacking.

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 output schema, annotations, and the presence of sibling tools, the description is incomplete. It does not mention return types, pagination, or any filters beyond the parameters. A more complete description would include what notifications are included and how to interpret results.

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 description does not explain the parameters or their purpose. Although the input schema has descriptions for 'archived' and 'dashboard_id', the tool description itself adds no context. With 0% schema coverage in the description, the agent must rely solely on the schema, which is insufficient for correct usage.

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 'Get list of notifications from Metabase', which clearly identifies the action (list) and resource (notifications). However, it does not differentiate from sibling tools like 'get_notification' or 'list_alerts', which could cause confusion about which tool to use.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description lacks any mention of context, prerequisites, or when not to use it, leaving the agent without direction.

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