[Read] Get the latest build number

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It clearly discloses read-only behavior, the non-mutating nature ('never writes'), and that it 'suggests the next one' (not just the latest). It doesn't describe return format or error behavior, but for a read-only tool this is adequate.

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?

Two concise sentences with the most important information front-loaded ('Read-only. Finds the highest build number...'). No wasted words or repetition, and the structure is clear.

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?

For a read-only lookup tool with no output schema, the description covers what it does, when to use it, and its non-mutating nature. However, it could be slightly more explicit about the return value (e.g., whether it returns the latest and/or suggested build numbers), but the intent is clear enough.

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 100%, with descriptions for all three parameters. The description adds context by mentioning 'optionally scoped to a marketing version and/or platform', which maps to the version and platform parameters, but doesn't add meaningful syntax or format details beyond the 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?

The description states a specific verb ('Finds') and clear resource ('highest build number (CFBundleVersion) already uploaded for an app'), with optional scoping by version/platform. This distinguishes it from siblings like asc_builds_list (which lists builds) and asc_build_get (which fetches a specific build).

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 guidance is given: 'Use this before an Xcode MCP build/archive step to decide what build number to set.' It also explains when not to use it ('this server never writes to the Xcode project itself'), but it doesn't explicitly name alternative tools, so it's not a full 5.

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