get_dns_record

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It does usefully disclose the return shape ("type, name, content, TTL, proxy status, comment"), which matters because there is no output schema. It does not mention that this is a non-mutating read, permission requirements, or how a missing/invalid record_id is handled.

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 compact sentences: the first gives purpose and lookup key, the second enumerates return fields. No padding, and the most important information (what it fetches and how) is front-loaded.

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 two-parameter read tool with no output schema, the description covers both purpose and returned fields, which is most of what an agent needs. Minor gaps remain around error/not-found behavior and required permissions, but nothing essential to invoking it correctly is missing.

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%, with both parameters documented as required, so the schema does the heavy lifting. The description reinforces the record_id-by-ID semantics ("by record ID") but adds no format, scope, or constraint detail beyond 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?

States a specific verb and resource ("Get a single DNS record in a Cloudflare zone by record ID") and implicitly separates itself from list_dns_records by emphasizing "single." However, it never names or contrasts with the closest siblings (list_dns_records, get_dns_record_usage, export_dns_records), so the differentiation is implied rather than explicit.

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?

Usage is only implied: an agent can infer it is the right tool when it already has a record_id and wants one record's details. There is no explicit when-to-use, when-not-to-use, or routing to list_dns_records when only a zone_id is known, and no stated prerequisites for the zone_id/record_id pair.

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