Claim Agent Task

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

The annotations (readOnlyHint=false, destructiveHint=false) are present and align with the description. The description adds behavioral context beyond annotations, such as lease expiry, conflicting live claim returning 409, and the need to save execution_epoch and lease_expires_at. This makes the tool's behavior transparent and expected.

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 concise yet comprehensive, using structured sections 'USE WHEN', 'NOT FOR', and explicit behavioral notes. It avoids redundancy and packs essential information without being overly verbose. The structure enhances readability and preserves 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?

The description covers all critical aspects: the action (claim/reclaim), when to use, what to save from the return, error handling (409 conflict), and the output (task payload). It also differentiates from related tools, ensuring the agent knows exactly when this tool is appropriate. The description is self-sufficient for safe and correct invocation.

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, task_id, is fully described in the schema with 'Agent task UUID.' The description also hints at the return value containing execution_epoch and lease_expires_at, which provides additional semantic context. Since schema coverage is 100% and the description adds useful detail, parameter semantics are clear.

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's purpose: 'Claim an available Agent-stage task, or reclaim it after its lease expires.' It specifies the verb 'claim', the resource 'Agent-stage task', and additional nuance about reclaiming. It also distinguishes from sibling tools like talonic_get_agent_task and talonic_heartbeat_agent_task.

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?

Explicit usage guidance is provided: 'USE WHEN: ready to process a task' and 'NOT FOR: merely inspecting work (use talonic_get_agent_task) or extending an active lease (use talonic_heartbeat_agent_task)'. Behavioral details about conflicting claims (HTTP 409) and successful claims (returns task payload) further clarify when and how to use the tool.

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