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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint and idempotentHint. The description adds that the tool returns latest documents with optional type filtering, and that no search query is needed. It does not contradict annotations and adds meaningful behavioral context beyond them.

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?

Single sentence with a dash separating purpose and filter capability. Information is front-loaded: 'Latest documents published in the Federal Register' immediately conveys the tool's function. Concise and well-structured.

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 presence of an output schema and comprehensive annotations, the description covers purpose, filter options, and usage context (no search query). No additional information about return values or behavior is needed for a simple listing 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 baseline is 3. The description partially explains document_type (the enum values) but does not mention the limit parameter. It adds value by stating 'No search query needed' but otherwise does not significantly enrich schema semantics.

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 the tool retrieves 'Latest documents published in the Federal Register' and lists the filterable types, distinguishing it from the sibling `legal.fedregister.search` (which requires a query) and `legal.fedregister.document` (which likely retrieves a specific document).

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?

Implicitly tells when to use this tool ('No search query needed') versus search-based alternatives. Does not explicitly name sibling tools but provides enough context for an agent to differentiate 'recent' from 'search'.

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