Set Category Budgets

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

Beyond the annotations (readOnlyHint=false, idempotentHint=true, destructiveHint=false), the description reveals that the prior amount is read before writing and the read may be cached. This adds valuable internal behavior context, such as the read-before-write pattern and cache usage, which annotations do not cover.

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 a single, well-structured sentence with a parenthetical that packs the key behavioral detail. Every word contributes meaning, and the critical usage warning 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?

The description covers purpose, rate limiting, batch size advice, and internal behavior. It lacks mention of the optional budget_id parameter or return values, but given no output schema and moderate complexity, it is reasonably complete.

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 schema description coverage is 50% (budget_id has a description, but assignments as a whole does not, and category_id within assignments lacks a description). The tool description does not elaborate on parameters beyond mentioning 'category/month pairs' in passing, failing to compensate for the incomplete schema. It does not add new semantic information for any parameter.

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 that the tool sets budgeted amounts for category/month pairs in a single request, using a specific verb ('set') and resource ('budgeted amounts'). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like set_category_targets, which set targets instead of budgets.

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 explicitly warns about the cost of two API calls per pair and the 200/hour rate limit, advising to keep batches small. This provides clear usage guidance, though it does not explicitly contrast with alternatives or state when not to use the tool.

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