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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It reveals the output is a compact tree with only titles, and explicitly states what is excluded (lesson body content). This gives useful behavioral insight, though it does not cover all possible aspects like error handling or permissions.

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 concise with two sentences. The first sentence states the core function, the second provides use cases and a key limitation. No unnecessary words are used, and it is 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?

The tool is simple with a single parameter and no output schema. The description explains the return structure at a high level (course → modules → lessons) and notes the exclusion of body content. This is sufficient for the tool's complexity, though a bit more detail on node structure would be helpful.

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 schema has one parameter (id) with 0% description coverage. The description does not explicitly explain the parameter, but the phrase 'of the course' and the tool name imply that the id refers to a course. While not fully compensating, the parameter's meaning is largely self-evident, so a mid-range score 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 clearly states the tool returns a 'compact titles-only tree of the course: course → modules → lessons', which is a specific verb and resource. It also distinguishes itself by explicitly noting it does NOT include lesson body content, separating it from sibling tools like get_lesson or list_course_lessons.

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 provides clear usage context by saying it is 'Ideal for agents to plan reorders, spot empty lessons, or summarize a course'. It does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use it, but the intended scenarios are clearly stated.

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