get_names_by_status
Returns a curated list of names filtered by trend status.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| kind | Yes | extinct=zero recent births; endangered=near-zero; rising=gaining share; comeback=previously dormant now recovering |
Returns a curated list of names filtered by trend status.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| kind | Yes | extinct=zero recent births; endangered=near-zero; rising=gaining share; comeback=previously dormant now recovering |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries full responsibility for disclosing behavior. It states 'curated list' without explaining what curation entails (e.g., truncation, ordering, exclusion). There is no mention of limits, return format, or pagination, leaving significant behavioral ambiguity.
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 concise sentence that is front-loaded with the core action. It avoids wasted words, though it is somewhat under-specified; the brevity still works in its favor.
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 one-parameter tool with high schema coverage, the description conveys the essential action and filter. However, the term 'curated' is vague, there is no output schema, and no alternative tool guidance is provided. Given the surrounding context of many sibling tools, more detail would improve completeness.
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 fully documents the sole parameter 'kind' with enum descriptions, achieving 100% coverage. The description adds no extra meaning beyond referencing 'trend status,' so it relies on the schema's thorough documentation. Baseline 3 is appropriate.
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 uses a specific verb ('returns') and identifies the resource ('list of names') along with the filtering dimension ('trend status'). It is clear, but it does not explicitly distinguish itself from sibling tools like get_name_data or get_decade_names.
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?
No guidance is given on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It does not mention exclusions, prerequisites, or which sibling tools might be more appropriate for other use cases. The usage context is only implied by the name and schema.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.