get_channel_analytics

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It explains defaults, date override behavior, and return metrics, but does not mention permissions, rate limits, data availability, or explicitly state that this is a read-only operation. This is acceptable but not comprehensive.

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 well-structured with purpose, args, and returns sections. It is slightly longer than necessary because the return list is detailed even though an output schema exists, but every section earns its place and there is no fluff.

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 description covers all parameters and the return shape, and the output schema exists to handle return details. It is missing explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus analytics siblings, but it provides enough information to configure and invoke the tool correctly.

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 0%, but the description compensates fully by documenting all four parameters: time_period presets and default, start_date/end_date formats and override behavior, and dimensions default/meaning. This adds substantial meaning beyond the bare schema.

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 states a specific verb ('Queries'), resource ('core YouTube Studio channel analytics'), and scope ('for a specified timeframe'), making the tool's function clear. It does not explicitly differentiate from siblings like get_analytics_by_dimension or get_channel_overview, but the name and description convey channel-level analytics clearly.

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 implies usage for channel analytics over a time period with optional grouping, but it does not state when to prefer this tool over siblings such as get_analytics_by_dimension or get_channel_overview. There are no explicit exclusions or alternative routing, so guidance is only implicit.

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