calculate_statistics
Calculate descriptive statistics for a list of numbers. Returns: {mean, median, std_dev, min, max, sum, count, percentiles}
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| numbers | Yes |
Calculate descriptive statistics for a list of numbers. Returns: {mean, median, std_dev, min, max, sum, count, percentiles}
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| numbers | Yes |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
No annotations exist, so the description must fully disclose behavior. It lists return fields but omits edge-case handling (e.g., empty list, non-numeric values) or data type requirements beyond the word 'numbers'.
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 concise sentences: one for purpose, one for return fields. No unnecessary words, front-loading the action and input.
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 a single parameter and no output schema, the description covers the return shape but lacks details on error behavior, precision, or valid input constraints. Adequate for a simple tool but not comprehensive.
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 description adds 'list of numbers' to the schema, which has an empty items type. However, it does not specify numeric format (e.g., floats vs integers) or which percentiles are included, leaving some ambiguity despite low schema coverage (0%).
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 specifies the action ('calculate'), the resource ('descriptive statistics'), and the input ('list of numbers'), clearly differentiating from siblings like calculate_irr and calculate_npv which are financial tools.
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 explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance is provided. While the domain (statistics) is implied by sibling names, the description does not exclude alternatives or mention prerequisites.
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.