ssh_session_list

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

With no annotations present, the description carries full responsibility and delivers: it states the operation reads in-memory session state, changes nothing on remote hosts or local config, and excludes closed sessions. This is exactly the behavioral context an agent needs to safely invoke an inspection tool.

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?

Three sentences, each earning its place: the first defines the tool's output, the second establishes safety, and the third explains parameter behavior. Information is front-loaded and no words are wasted.

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 one-parameter list tool with no output schema, this description is fully sufficient: it states return fields, filter semantics, read-only nature, and exclusion of closed sessions. Nothing an agent needs to call it correctly is missing.

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?

Although the schema already documents server as 'Filter by server name' (100% coverage), the description adds crucial semantics: the parameter is optional, is a case-insensitive substring match, and omitting it lists all active sessions. This materially improves parameter understanding 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?

The description opens with a specific verb and resource—'Lists currently active SSH sessions'—and enumerates the exact fields returned, distinguishing it from sibling session-mutation and listing tools. No ambiguity about what the tool does.

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?

It clearly conveys that this is a read-only inspection tool and explains how to use the optional server filter, including the omit-to-list-all behavior. It does not name explicit alternative tools for mutation, but the read-only framing tells an agent when not to use it, so the usage context is solid.

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