getRailStatus
Queries live train departures and schedule delays for European transit hubs using transport.opendata.ch.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| station | Yes | Station name (e.g. Zurich HB) |
Queries live train departures and schedule delays for European transit hubs using transport.opendata.ch.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| station | Yes | Station name (e.g. Zurich HB) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries full burden. It only states the tool 'queries live train departures' without disclosing behavioral traits like rate limits, data freshness, permissions, or error handling.
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 a single, well-structured sentence that front-loads the key verb and resource. No extraneous information is present.
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 query tool with no output schema, the description sufficiently communicates purpose. However, it lacks information about return format or potential limitations.
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 schema covers 100% of the single parameter 'station' with a description and example. The tool description adds no further parameter details beyond what the schema provides, resulting in a baseline score.
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 states the verb 'queries', the resource 'live train departures and schedule delays', the scope 'European transit hubs', and the data source. This distinguishes it from sibling tools like getAirportBoard or getTransitStatus.
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 implies usage for train departures and delays but provides no explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. No exclusion criteria or context are mentioned.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
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