dns_cache

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It discloses the returned field set and that records come from the device cache, but says nothing about required access, whether the cache is per-interface/per-VRF, or whether listing is side-effect free (the safe read profile is left implicit).

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?

One front-loaded sentence that names the action, the resource, and the returned fields with zero filler. Nothing to trim.

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?

An output schema exists, so return values need not be explained, and this is a simple single-parameter read tool. The remaining gap is that the sole parameter and the device scoping are never described, but for a listing tool of this complexity the description is close to sufficient.

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 description coverage is 0% and the description never mentions the single required parameter 'device_name' — no format, no expectation of device identifier style. The parameter is self-explanatory by name, but the description adds no meaning over the raw schema.

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 ('List') and resource ('cached DNS records on the device') plus the returned columns, so the agent knows exactly what it retrieves. It never names the sibling it could be confused with (clear_dns_cache, add_static_dns), but the read-listing verb makes it distinguishable without opening the schema.

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?

There is no when-to-use statement, no prerequisite, and no mention of alternatives such as clear_dns_cache or add_static_dns. The only guidance an agent gets is what it can infer from the tool name.

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