pcap_start

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

With no annotations, the description discloses silent ignore behavior and a note on failure. However, it lacks details on success behavior, idempotency, or side effects, leaving room for improvement.

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 two sentences with no extraneous information. It is front-loaded with the core purpose and efficiently covers key behavioral notes.

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?

While the description covers purpose and basic usage, it lacks detail on the output (note structure or success behavior) and whether the tool is idempotent. Given the presence of an output schema, this information would enhance completeness.

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?

There are no parameters, so the description need not add parameter info. Baseline for 0 params is 4, and the description is adequate.

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: 'Begin processing the configured pcap file (FILE mode only).' This specifies the action, resource, and constraint, distinguishing it from sibling tools like pcap_status.

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?

The description explains that the call is silently ignored outside FILE mode, indicating when not to use it. It also suggests following up with pcap_status and mentions a note on failure, providing clear context for use.

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