get_scout_updates

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, indicating safe read-only behavior. The description adds value by explaining that updates are paginated and each contains findings from a run, which provides behavioral context beyond annotations. However, it does not disclose ordering, rate limits, or any error conditions.

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 front-loads the key purpose. Every word contributes; no wasteful or redundant information.

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?

The description indicates the response contains findings from runs, which partially compensates for the missing output schema. However, it does not specify additional fields, response structure, or pagination details (e.g., how to use cursor). Given the moderate complexity (3 parameters, no output schema), the description is adequate but not 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?

The input schema has 100% description coverage for all three parameters (scout_id, cursor, limit), so the baseline is 3. The description does not add additional meaning beyond the schema; it only reinforces that the result is paginated. No parameter-specific guidance is given.

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 retrieves paginated updates/reports for a scout, with each update containing findings from a run. This distinct verb+resource combination differentiates it from sibling tools like create_scout, delete_scout, or get_scout_detail.

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 implies pagination via 'paginated updates' but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like get_scout_detail. No guidance on prerequisites or exclusion criteria is provided.

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