set_dial

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

With no annotations, the description adds one behavioral trait: persistence across sessions. However, it does not disclose whether setting overrides existing values, whether the effect is immediate, or any side effects. For a mutation tool, more detail would be beneficial.

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 very concise—two short phrases that quickly convey core info. No wasted words. However, it could be slightly more structured (e.g., front-loading the verb) without significant length increase.

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 simple tool with no output schema and 100% parameter coverage, the description is adequate. It covers persistence and value range. However, it lacks context on what a dial controls or how this setting interacts with other dials and presets, which would help an agent understand when to use 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?

The input schema covers both parameters with descriptions (dial name, value 0–10). The description adds no further semantic meaning beyond what the schema already provides, so the baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 specific action (set) and resource (one behavior dial) with constraints (value 0–10, persists across sessions). It effectively distinguishes this tool from siblings like get_dials (read-only), reset_dials (unset), and apply_preset (batch set).

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 provides implied usage context for setting a single dial, but does not explicitly guide when to use this tool versus alternatives like apply_preset, get_dials, or reset_dials. No exclusions or prerequisites are mentioned.

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