Modify an existing JIRA issue by providing its issue key and fields to change.
Update an existing JIRA issue
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| fields | Yes | Fields to update on the issue | |
| issueKey | Yes | The key of the issue to update |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.0.1Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries full burden for behavioral disclosure. It only says 'Update an existing JIRA issue', lacking details on permissions, error handling, partial update semantics, or consequences of invalid issue keys.
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 sentence with no waste, but it is too minimal. Conciseness is achieved at the cost of completeness.
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 the absence of output schema and the presence of many sibling tools, the description is incomplete. It does not explain how to structure the fields object or handle partial updates.
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?
Parameters have schema descriptions (100% coverage), so baseline is 3. The description does not add meaning beyond the schema; the 'fields' object description is generic and offers no guidance on expected properties or format.
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 'Update' and resource 'existing JIRA issue', distinguishing it from sibling tools like create_issue and transition_issue.
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 use for modifying an existing issue but does not explicitly state when to use it versus alternatives like transition_issue for status changes or add_comment for comments. No when-not-to-use guidance is provided.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.