get_paper_metadata

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It reveals that arXiv inputs trigger an API call to fetch metadata, while others return a resolved URL with empty bibliographic fields (termed 'cheap by design'). However, it does not mention side effects, error conditions, or rate limits, and does not explicitly declare it as read-only. It adds useful context but is not fully transparent.

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 two sentences with no fluff. The core purpose is front-loaded, followed by the key behavioral distinction for arXiv versus other sources. Every sentence earns its place, and it is appropriately concise for a tool with one parameter.

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?

Given the tool's simplicity (one parameter, no annotations) and the existence of an output schema, the description covers essential behavior: resolving inputs and returning specific metadata for arXiv, while handling other sources efficiently. It could be more complete by mentioning error handling or URL format requirements, but these are minor gaps. Overall, it provides enough context for an agent to call 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%, so the description must compensate. It does by explaining that input_str accepts arXiv IDs/URLs, bioRxiv URLs, DOIs, or generic URLs, adding meaning beyond the schema's simple 'string' type. It does not specify exact formats or validation rules, but the accepted types are clearly stated, which is sufficient for a single simple parameter.

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 ('Resolve') and a clear resource ('arXiv ID/URL, bioRxiv URL, DOI, or generic URL') with a defined output ('canonical metadata'). It also differentiates behavior by input type, which helps distinguish it from sibling tools like fetch_paper_text that likely handle full text.

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 intended use is implied by the purpose ('resolve... to canonical metadata'), but there is no explicit mention of when to use this tool versus alternatives or when not to use it. It does not compare with siblings or provide selection criteria, such as 'use fetch_paper_text for full text'. 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.