betr_todays_races

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

Beyond the readOnlyHint, openWorldHint, and idempotentHint annotations, the description adds useful behavioral context: 'Auth: none needed' and a detailed return shape including field names. This adds value beyond the annotations, though it does not describe edge cases like empty results or pagination.

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 and efficient, with three sentences covering purpose, return structure, and authentication. It is front-loaded with the primary action and uses minimal but informative prose, with no irrelevant content.

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 simple read-only list tool with one optional parameter, the description provides all necessary context: what races are included, how they are grouped, the return format with specific fields, and authentication requirements. The lack of an output schema is compensated by the explicit return shape.

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 only parameter, CountryFilter, is fully described in the schema with 'Country filter (0 = all).' The tool description does not add extra parameter guidance, but since schema coverage is 100%, the baseline of 3 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 that the tool returns 'Today's races grouped by code (Thoroughbred / Greyhound / Harness)' with a specific resource and grouping. It also mentions the homepage context, distinguishing it from other race-related tools that focus on individual races or next 5 races.

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 indicates the intended usage context ('for the homepage') and provides clear scope ('Today's races'). It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusions, but the context is sufficient for an agent to understand when this high-level grouped listing is appropriate.

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