Get estimate summary

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

Declares tool as 'read-only', which is key behavioral info. No annotations exist, so description carries burden. Does not detail output fields, pagination, or permissions beyond read-only nature.

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 concise sentences, no fluff. Front-loads purpose immediately, then adds usage guidance.

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?

Tool is simple (1 param, read-only, no output schema). Description covers purpose, return content (budgeted vs actual), and usage context. Lacks explicit return structure but adequate for simplicity.

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?

Single parameter workItemKey with 100% schema coverage. Description does not add extra semantics beyond what schema provides. Baseline score of 3 applies.

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?

Clearly states verb 'Get', resource 'estimate summary', and scope 'budgeted vs. actual time and value'. Distinguishes from siblings by specifying 'for a work item'.

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?

Provides explicit use case ('are we over budget on this job') and suggests pairing with list_time_entries for detail. Lacks explicit when-not-to-use but context is clear.

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