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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=false, so the safety profile is covered. The description adds useful context about the default 14-day window and the categories of absence included, but it doesn't describe output shape, ordering, or whether it includes people on partial-day leave.

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?

A single, front-loaded sentence that states the resource, scope, and default behavior with zero wasted words. The semicolon cleanly separates the default-window detail.

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 tool with two optional date parameters and no output schema, the description provides enough context to call it correctly. The only minor gap is not describing the output format, but the tool's simplicity makes that acceptable.

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% and both parameters are documented as YYYY-MM-DD strings. The description adds meaning beyond the schema by stating that omitting the dates defaults to the next 14 days, which is not captured in the input 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 states a specific resource (who is away) and scopes it to vacations, sick leave, and other absences between two dates. This clearly distinguishes it from siblings like find_people or hr_money, though it doesn't explicitly contrast with an alternative tool.

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 implies usage by defining the date range and stating the default window of the next 14 days. However, there is no explicit 'when to use this vs. something else' guidance or exclusions, so usage is only implied.

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