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

With no annotations, the description provides cost ($0.005 per call), caching per token contract, and the inclusion of symbol/decimals/formatted balance. It does not cover failure modes but is transparent about significant behaviors.

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?

Two sentences with no wasted words. The first sentence front-loads the core purpose and key features (network, return fields, caching), and the second states cost. Every piece of information 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?

Given the tool's simplicity (2 params, no output schema), the description covers main purpose, cost, and caching. It hints at return format. Missing edge case behavior (e.g., invalid address) but acceptable for this complexity.

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 coverage is 100% and parameter descriptions are already clear. The description reinforces the ERC-20 context and adds return field information but does not add significant semantic detail beyond the schema.

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 it retrieves the ERC-20 token balance for a Base mainnet address, including symbol, decimals, and formatted balance. This distinguishes it from siblings like chain_balance which returns native balance.

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 specifies the network (Base mainnet) and mentions the cost, but does not explicitly contrast with siblings or provide when-not-to-use guidance. However, the context of ERC-20 tokens is implicit differentiation.

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