Get Alert Triggers

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

The description adds behavioral details beyond annotations: it requires an API key (OILPRICEAPI_KEY) and explains that the API returns per-alert counters (trigger_count, last_triggered_at) rather than an event feed. This helps the AI agent understand the data model. Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint=true, so the description complements them well.

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 three sentences: the first states purpose, the second gives usage guidance, and the third provides critical behavioral context. It is concise, front-loaded, and every sentence adds value.

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?

Given the tool has only one optional parameter, no output schema, and annotations are provided, the description covers all necessary aspects: what it does, when to use it, prerequisites (API key), and the nature of the returned data (counters, not events). This is sufficient for an AI agent to invoke it correctly.

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 coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. The description does not add extra meaning for the 'since' parameter beyond what the schema already provides (ISO 8601 format, filters by last_triggered_at).

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 the tool retrieves recent trigger activity for the user's price alerts, specifying what data is returned (which alerts fired, counts, last triggered time). This distinguishes it from sibling tool 'opa_list_price_alerts' which likely lists all alerts without trigger history.

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 says 'Use when the user asks whether any alerts have gone off or about recent alert activity.' This gives clear context for when to invoke the tool, though it does not mention when not to use it or explicitly list alternatives.

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