ssh_test

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the tool reports success/failure with timing and actionable error details, which informs the agent about the return type and content. It does not mention authentication or potential side effects, but 'test' implies a non-destructive operation. The description adds meaningful context beyond the bare name, so a 4 is appropriate.

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 extremely concise: two sentences that front-load the core purpose, then immediately state the differentiation and usage context. Every sentence earns its place, with no redundant phrasing or filler.

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 simple two-parameter schema and absence of an output schema, the description covers the essential aspects: what it does, what it returns (success/failure, timing, error details), and when to use it. It lacks precise output formatting details, but it provides enough for an agent to invoke it correctly and interpret the result. This is nearly complete for such a lightweight tool.

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 already covers 100% of parameter descriptions (host and port). The description adds no additional meaning about parameters—it does not explain expected formats, defaults, or how the port is used beyond the schema's basic default of 22. Therefore, the baseline of 3 is appropriate; the description adds no extra value here.

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: a quick connectivity test to an SSH host, reporting success/failure with timing and error details. It explicitly distinguishes itself from the sibling ssh_diagnose by being lighter and faster, so an agent can easily tell them apart without examining schemas.

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?

It explicitly states when to use this tool ('use this for a quick check before running operations') and contrasts it with ssh_diagnose ('lighter and faster'). This gives clear context and implies when not to use it (when a deeper diagnostic is needed). The guidance is direct and actionable.

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