basecamp_update_column

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

With no annotations, the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It only says 'update', which implies mutation, but doesn't state whether it's a partial update, what happens to unspecified fields, required permissions, or the response format. This is insufficient for a write operation without annotation support.

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 a single concise sentence that directly conveys the tool's core purpose without redundancy or irrelevant detail.

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?

This is a mutation tool with no annotations, no output schema, and only 50% schema coverage. The description is minimal and does not explain required identifiers, update semantics, or expected response, leaving significant gaps for an agent to safely invoke it.

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 50%: title and description have descriptions, but project_id and column_id do not. The description mentions the two updatable fields, aligning with the schema, but adds no extra meaning about the identifiers or update semantics. It provides modest added value 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 clearly states the verb (update) and resource (column) and specifies the updatable fields (title or description). It distinguishes itself from column-related siblings like basecamp_change_column_color or basecamp_move_column by focusing on metadata fields.

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 other column update tools. It does not mention alternatives such as change_column_color or move_column, nor does it explain the context for updating a column's title/description.

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