ack_signal

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

No annotations provided, and description omits behavioral details like idempotency, error cases, or permissions. Only states the mutation effect on downstream polling.

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?

One sentence with no waste; front-loaded action and effect. Every word earns its place.

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?

Adequate for a simple tool given output schema exists, but lacks behavioral transparency and usage context that would help agent use it confidently.

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 100%, so the schema already documents parameters. Description adds no extra meaning beyond the schema.

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?

Description clearly states the action (acknowledge), the target (one claimed or pending signal), and the effect (downstream polling stops). It distinguishes from siblings like claim_signal by specifying state.

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?

Implied usage context from 'claimed or pending signal', but no explicit when-to-use or alternatives guidance. Siblings like claim_signal and extend_signal_lease exist but aren't mentioned.

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