get_coverage

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

With no annotations, the description fully takes on transparency. It states no API key required and no credits consumed, and describes the return format (JSON with coverage by pollutant and month, data type, timestamp).

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?

Three focused sentences plus a returns section. Front-loaded with purpose, no wasted words.

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 no-parameter tool, the description covers purpose, usage timing, authentication, cost, and return format. It fully compensates for the lack of annotations and output schema details.

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 tool has zero parameters, so baseline is 4 as per rules. The description correctly indicates no parameters are needed.

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?

Description clearly states the tool checks which months of climate data are available, using a specific verb (check) and resource (months of climate data). It distinguishes from sibling tools like query_climate that retrieve actual data.

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?

Explicitly advises using this tool 'before running a query,' which gives clear context. It doesn't list alternatives but the sibling tools for actual queries imply when this tool is appropriate.

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