get_alerts

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

With no annotations, the description must carry the behavioral disclosure burden, but it only restates the core purpose of retrieving alerts. It does not mention return format, data source, update frequency, or whether this is a safe read-only operation. This is a minimal behavioral statement rather than useful transparency.

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 compact, front-loaded, and every sentence earns a place: the first line states the action, the second documents the only parameter. There is no filler or redundant information.

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 tool with one simple parameter, the description is near-adequate. However, with no output schema and no annotations, it does not describe what the returned alerts contain or how to distinguish this tool from get_forecast when selecting. A small but real completion gap remains.

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 only defines state as a string, so the description's 'Two-letter US state code (e.g. CA, NY)' adds important format and example context. It fully clarifies the sole parameter, though it does not enumerate all valid state codes or explain invalid input behavior.

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 opens with a specific verb and object ('Get weather alerts for a US state'), clearly identifying the tool's function. It does not explicitly contrast with sibling get_forecast, but the word 'alerts' already separates it from a forecast tool. Clear, but stops short of explicit sibling differentiation.

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?

There is no guidance on when to choose this tool over get_forecast or what conditions call for alerts versus forecast. The only usage-related content is the state parameter, which belongs more to parameter semantics. The agent receives no decision support for tool selection.

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