generate_signed_url

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries full burden. It discloses that the URL is time-limited and does not require API key authentication, but it fails to mention whether generating the URL requires authentication, permissions on the file, or any rate limits. More detail on the URL's behavior would be helpful.

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 long, with no superfluous content. Every sentence adds value: the first defines the action, the second suggests use cases. It is front-loaded and concise.

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 (2 parameters, no output schema, no nested objects), the description provides a basic understanding but lacks context on authentication requirements for generation, error scenarios, or what the signed URL looks like. It is sufficient but not exhaustive.

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 100% and the schema already describes the two parameters (fileId, expires) with descriptions. The description adds minimal value by implicitly referencing 'time-limited', but overall the parameter semantics are adequately handled by the 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 clearly states the verb 'generate', the resource 'signed URL for accessing a file', and the purpose 'time-limited' and 'without requiring API key authentication'. It effectively distinguishes this tool from sibling tools like share_file or download_file, as no other tool generates signed URLs.

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 mentions 'Useful for sharing files or embedding in applications' which implies usage context, but it does not explicitly state when not to use this tool or how it compares to alternatives like share_file. There are no exclusion criteria or sibling references.

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