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Explain why a program was recommended

tv_explain_recommendation
Read-onlyIdempotent

Returns a full score breakdown for a specific program in a given mood/context: per-component value + reason, extracted genres, streaming cross-ref, freshness, sources used, and a list of alternatives that were not picked (with the specific reason each was dropped). Use to understand or debug a recommendation.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
titleYesProgram title to explain
channelNoOptional channel id/name/alias to disambiguate
contextNo
start_utcNoOptional ISO start time to disambiguate

Output Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
okYes
reasonNo
contextNo
subjectNo
freshnessYes
confidenceNo
fresh_statusNo
sources_usedNo
streaming_xrefNo
score_breakdownNo
extracted_genresNo
alternatives_not_pickedNo

TDQS

A4.2/5.0
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the description adds value by detailing the output contents (per-component values, reasons, alternatives, etc.). It does not contradict annotations, and it provides behavioral context beyond what annotations convey.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is two sentences long, front-loaded with the key outputs, and ends with a usage recommendation. Every sentence is necessary and well-structured.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness4/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

The tool has an output schema (not shown but implied), annotations, and 75% schema coverage. The description explains the return value in detail and states its purpose. It could mention prerequisites or that context is optional, but overall it is fairly complete for a debugging tool.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 75% (3 of 4 parameters described). The description mentions 'in a given mood/context' which adds context for the context parameter, but does not fully detail its structure. For parameters with schema descriptions, the description adds little beyond what the schema provides.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the tool returns a full score breakdown for a specific program in a given mood/context, listing specific outputs. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like tv_recommend_by_mood by focusing on explaining an existing recommendation rather than generating one.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

The description explicitly says 'Use to understand or debug a recommendation,' providing clear guidance on when to use it. It doesn't explicitly state when not to use it, but the context and sibling tool names imply alternatives for other tasks.

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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TDQS

A4.2/5.0
Disambiguation4/5

Tools are largely distinct with clear use cases, though tv_recommend_by_mood and tv_recommend_today overlap somewhat in providing ranked lists. The descriptions include guidance to prefer tv_concierge for single decisions, which helps reduce confusion.

Naming Consistency5/5

All tool names follow a consistent 'tv_' prefix with a verb_noun pattern (e.g., tv_check_freshness, tv_search_program). Minor exceptions like tv_important_today and tv_now_on_tv still adhere to the same structure, maintaining high consistency.

Tool Count5/5

With 14 tools, the set is well-scoped for a comprehensive TV and streaming recommendation service. Each tool addresses a specific user need without being excessive, making the set appropriate for the domain.

Completeness4/5

The tool set covers key operations: search, recommendations (single, list, for couples), planning, prime-time/now, important events, and details. Minor gaps like user preference storage are absent, but the coverage is sufficient for most user queries.