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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and non-destructive behavior, so the description only needs to add context. It adds that the operation is free, requires no API key, and applies to in-flight async operations, which provides useful behavioral context beyond the annotations.

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 compact and front-loaded. The primary purpose is stated in one clear sentence, and the cost/auth note is appended succinctly. Every element 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?

For a simple, one-parameter, read-only status tool, the description provides enough to call it correctly: the target resource, the identifier, and the cost/auth constraints. It does not detail the output shape or possible statuses, and it does not explain what happens if the operation is not in-flight, but these are not critical for a basic status query given the annotations.

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?

The input schema only specifies 'operation_id' as a string with no description, so the description carries the semantic burden. It clarifies that operation_id references an in-flight async operation and that the tool queries its state, which gives the parameter meaningful context. It could be stronger by explaining how to obtain the operation_id, but it is adequate.

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 specifies a verb ('Query'), a resource ('the current state of any in-flight async operation'), and the key identifier ('operation_id'). It also implicitly differentiates from the sibling 'get_outcome' by focusing on in-flight operations rather than completed outcomes.

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 gives clear context: use this when you need the current state of an in-flight operation identified by operation_id. It also notes the operation is free and requires no key. It does not explicitly mention exclusions or alternatives, but the usage context is unambiguous.

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