midi_sort

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 only states 'Sort MIDI events by time' without disclosing behavioral traits such as whether the sort is in-place, ascending or descending, if it affects all events or selected ones, or any side effects like undo impact. This is insufficient for an agent to understand the tool's behavior.

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 short (one sentence plus an args list) and front-loaded with the core purpose. However, it sacrifices necessary detail for brevity, making it marginally acceptable. It could be restructured to include more information without losing conciseness.

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 no annotations, no output schema, and only one parameter with no schema description, the description is incomplete. It fails to explain what 'sort by time' means (e.g., ordering, tie-breaking), the return value (if any), or error conditions. For a simple tool, more context is needed for reliable use.

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 description repeats the parameter name 'item_index' with the same meaning as the schema ('MIDI item index'), adding no additional semantic value. Schema coverage is 0%, so the description does not compensate with details like valid ranges, examples, or context about what constitutes a valid index.

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 'sort' and the resource 'MIDI events' along with the sorting criterion 'by time'. It distinguishes itself from sibling MIDI tools like 'midi_quantize' and 'midi_humanize' by specifying the action. However, it does not mention the scope (e.g., all events in the item or selected only) which slightly reduces clarity.

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 alternatives. There is no mention of prerequisites (e.g., item must exist) or conditions that would make this tool inappropriate. The description only states what it does, not when to use it.

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