estimate_cost

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the behavioral burden. It explains that the tool estimates cost and returns a breakdown, implying a read-only calculation. However, it does not explicitly state that no actual transcription/repair occurs, nor does it disclose pricing assumptions or side effects.

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?

Two sentences with zero filler. The action and resource are front-loaded, and the return breakdown is stated concisely. Every clause adds useful information.

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 low-complexity tool with two parameters and no output schema, the description is largely complete: it names the input and explicitly lists return components. A small gap is the absence of any statement about side effects or calculation basis, but this does not hinder correct calls.

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 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description adds context by naming 'LLM repair cost (if needed)', which hints at how expected_hallucination_rate factors in, but it does not substantially extend the parameter meaning already present in 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 names a specific verb ('estimate'), a specific resource ('processing cost'), and the input ('audio duration'), then states the output breakdown. This clearly distinguishes it from the processing-oriented siblings transcribe, detect_hallucinations, repair, and score.

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 makes it clear this is for estimating cost before processing, with no mention of alternatives or exclusions. Context is strong enough for an agent to select it when a cost estimate is needed, but it does not explicitly state when not to use it.

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