List mind maps

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

With no annotations, the description carries the behavioral burden and does well by explicitly stating 'Read-only' and 'local MindNode library.' This prevents assumptions of network calls or side effects. It could still disclose default exclusion of trashed docs, but that is documented at the parameter level.

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 tight sentence with the core behavior and return fields front-loaded; the read-only qualifier is a single appended word. No filler.

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, read-only listing tool with one optional documented parameter, the description covers scope, output fields, and safety. It stops short of mentioning explicit output structure or pagination, but these are minor for this complexity.

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 coverage is 100% because the only parameter, includeTrashed, has a clear description and default. The tool description adds no new parameter-level detail, so the baseline of 3 is appropriate.

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 names the exact verb (List), resource (all mind maps in local MindNode library), and the return fields (title, documentID, last modified). This clearly distinguishes it from siblings like get_mindmap (single retrieval) and create_mindmap.

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 listing purpose is implied by 'List all mind maps,' and the read-only note signals a safe enumeration. However, it never explicitly says when to prefer this tool over get_mindmap/open_mindmap or what condition triggers the includeTrashed parameter.

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