storm_ack_alerts

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the cursor is persistent, server-side, survives sessions, and that items are removed. This is sufficient for a mutation tool of this complexity.

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?

Three sentences cover action, usage, and persistence. Every sentence adds necessary information with no redundancy 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?

For a simple acknowledgment tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description covers behavior, usage context, and parameter guidance. Minor gap: does not mention any potential side effects, but overall complete.

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 100% and schema already describes the parameter. The description adds value by advising to use the highest id seen in storm_get_alerts_inbox, which is practical guidance beyond the raw schema definition.

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 action ('advance the persistent ack cursor' and 'removing items') and the resource ('api-channel inbox'). It distinguishes itself from the sibling tool storm_get_alerts_inbox by focusing on acknowledgment and removal.

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 explicitly instructs to call this after processing items from storm_get_alerts_inbox to avoid duplicates. It provides clear context on when to use, though it does not elaborate on when not to use or list alternatives.

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