tools_nikto

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

No behavioral traits disclosed; with no annotations, the description fails to mention whether the scan is destructive, requires permissions, or potential output characteristics beyond the existence of an output schema.

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?

Concise with a single-sentence purpose followed by a clear argument list; minimal verbosity but not highly structured.

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?

Provides basic parameter explanations and output schema existence, but lacks guidance on prerequisites, typical use cases, or potential side effects, making it adequate but not thorough.

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?

Despite 0% schema coverage, the description adds meaningful examples for each parameter (e.g., tuning values, output formats), clarifying usage beyond the schema's type definitions.

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 'Execute Nikto web server scanner,' specifying the tool's function and distinguishing it from sibling tools like network or directory scanners.

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 on when to use this tool versus alternatives; no exclusions or context provided beyond the basic command.

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