solve_award_trip

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

With no annotations, the description carries full responsibility. It explicitly states plans are priced from published charts and never assert live seat availability, and that empty results include no_plan_reasons. This is a strong disclosure of key behavioral limitations and return expectations, though it doesn't cover every potential edge case.

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 purpose is front-loaded, followed by a systematic per-parameter breakdown and behavioral caveats. The text is longer than average but every sentence adds value; there is no fluff or redundant wording.

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 8 parameters, no annotations, and no output schema, the description covers purpose, inputs, high-level output (plans with transfer steps, points math, fees, no_plan_reasons), and a critical limitation (no live availability). It does not describe the exact output structure, but the summary is sufficient for an agent to call and interpret results.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It explains wallet with an example, origins/destinations with IATA codes, cabins with options and default, max_cash_usd as a cap, and window dates as ISO optional. It covers 7 of 8 parameters but omits 'travelers', leaving its meaning to inference—a minor but notable gap.

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-resource pair ('Compute up to three verified award-booking plans for a trip') and the context clearly distinguishes it from siblings list_programs and parse_wallet. The 'verified' and 'up to three' qualifiers add specificity without ambiguity.

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 context for when to use the tool: after obtaining wallet IDs from list_programs, and it instructs the agent to confirm live availability before irreversible transfers. It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusions, but the sibling relationships are implicit, so this is adequate.

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