cms_prepare_bulk_update_pages

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

No annotations are provided, so the description bears full responsibility for disclosing behavior. It only states 'prepare' without explaining side effects (e.g., whether it creates a temporary record, locks entities, or returns a token). The agent cannot infer if the operation is safe, idempotent, or requires specific permissions.

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?

At six words, the description is extremely short, but it lacks necessary detail for a complex operation like bulk update preparation. It is under-specified rather than concise, missing critical information that would help the agent understand the tool's role.

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 presence of sibling tools (cms_commit_bulk_update_pages) and no output schema, the description should explain that the tool returns a bulk update identifier or token needed for the commit step. It fails to provide any workflow context or expected return value, making it inadequate for the tool's complexity.

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 input schema has 100% coverage (one parameter with a description), but the description adds no meaning beyond 'Action parameters as a JSON object'. It does not specify expected keys (e.g., page_ids, attributes) or structure, leaving the agent to guess what constitutes valid input for a bulk update.

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 'Prepare a bulk update for CMS pages' clearly indicates the tool is for initializing a bulk update operation on CMS pages. It distinguishes from sibling tools like cms_commit_bulk_update_pages (which commits) and cms_prepare_bulk_update_blocks (for blocks), establishing a specific verb+resource+scope.

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. It does not mention that this is a prerequisite for cms_commit_bulk_update_pages, nor does it explain the typical workflow or conditions under which preparation should occur.

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