Retrieve the last 100 ping events for a monitor (type, timestamp, IP, duration for complete events). Requires API key.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| api_key | Yes | API key (x-api-key header value) | |
| monitor_id | Yes | Monitor ID |
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It does disclose the limit (last 100), event fields, and API key requirement, which is useful. However, it does not explicitly state that the operation is read-only, nor does it mention error behavior, pagination, or what happens for incomplete events beyond implying they lack duration.
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, focused sentence that front-loads the primary action and includes key context (limit, fields, auth). Every word earns its place, with no unrelated fluff or repetition.
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 two-parameter read tool with no output schema, the description provides decent context: what is retrieved, the event fields, the limit, and the API key requirement. Minor gaps remain regarding error handling, sorting, and clarification of 'complete events', but it is largely sufficient for a low-complexity tool.
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 description coverage is 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description does not add meaning beyond the schema; it only reiterates that the monitor_id is for a monitor and the API key is required. No additional parameter context is provided.
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 identifies the tool as retrieving the last 100 ping events for a monitor with specific fields (type, timestamp, IP, duration). This distinguishes it from siblings like get_monitor_status (current status) and ping_monitor (triggering a ping), as it focuses on historical event data.
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 retrieving historical ping events but does not explicitly state when to prefer this over alternatives or provide exclusions. It lacks guidance such as 'use ping_monitor to create a ping' or 'use get_monitor_status for current status'.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.
Most tools target distinct resources/actions, but get_dashboard and list_monitors both provide overviews. Descriptions clarify their roles, so confusion is limited.
All tool names follow a consistent verb_noun pattern with lowercase and underscores (create_monitor, get_dashboard, get_monitor_status, get_ping_history, list_monitors, ping_monitor). No deviations.
With 6 tools, the set is well-scoped for a cron monitoring service, covering creation, status checking, history, and pinging without unnecessary bloat.
The core workflow (create, monitor, ping) is present, but there is no update or delete monitor operation, which is a significant gap for managing monitors over time.