schwab_option_expirations

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

With no annotations and a terse description, behavioral traits are largely undisclosed. The description omits details like authentication requirements, rate limits, or output format (despite an output schema existing). It adds little beyond the bare function.

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 concise at one sentence plus an args list, but it lacks structure and detail. While brevity is maintained, some informational content is sacrificed, making it borderline under-specified.

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 relative simplicity (1 required param, output schema present) and the presence of many sibling options tools, the description is too minimal. It fails to explain when to use this tool, what the output represents, or any constraints, leaving significant gaps.

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 has no description for the 'symbol' parameter (0% coverage). The description only adds 'Stock ticker symbol,' which is minimally informative and somewhat redundant given the parameter title. It does not compensate for the schema gap.

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's purpose: 'Get option expiration dates for a symbol.' The verb-resource pair is specific and distinct from sibling tools like schwab_option_chain, which returns full chain 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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as schwab_option_chain_by_expiration or find_options. The description lacks contextual direction, leaving the agent to infer usage without explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use advice.

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