yaaif_agent_spec_sync_preview

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It explicitly states 'Read-only' and the required ordering, which are valuable, but it does not describe what the preview returns, whether changes are guaranteed to be absent, or any limitations.

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 short sentences with no filler. The core action and directions are front-loaded, and the read-only/ordering note is placed efficiently at the end.

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 two-parameter preview tool, the description covers the purpose, direction semantics, safety, and sequencing. The lack of an output schema and any return-format detail is a minor gap, but the essential information needed to call the tool correctly is present.

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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It does so well by explaining the meaning of both enum values ('to_objects: spec → catalog', 'from_objects: catalog → spec'), which adds real semantic value beyond the raw schema. spec_id remains only nominally explained, but the directional mapping clarifies its role.

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 previews 'apply' or 'adopt' operations and precisely maps directions to spec→catalog or catalog→spec. It distinguishes itself from the related sync_apply tools by emphasizing preview and read-only, though it does not explicitly name alternative preview tools like adoption_preview.

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 clear context: use this to preview before a sync apply, and it is read-only. It does not explicitly list exclusions or contrast with sibling tools, but the ordering constraint 'must precede sync apply' gives actionable usage guidance.

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