get_pokemon_species

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It lists what data is included but does not disclose behavioral traits such as whether the operation is read-only, error handling for invalid names/IDs, rate limits, or pagination. The description adds context but not full transparency.

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 sentence that concisely lists the key data points. It is front-loaded with the main action. However, it could be improved by including parameter guidance without significant bloat.

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 one parameter, no output schema, and no annotations, the description explains what data is returned (flavor text, habitat, etc.) but does not describe the response structure or behavior for edge cases. Adequate for a simple tool, but missing output details.

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 input schema has one required parameter 'name_or_id' with no description (0% schema coverage). The tool description does not explain what format the name should take (e.g., lowercase, hyphenated), or whether ID is numeric. This leaves the agent guessing about valid inputs.

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 species-level data for a Pokémon and lists specific data types (flavor text, habitat, generation, legendary/mythical status, gender rate). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_pokemon, get_pokemon_stats, and get_pokemon_abilities.

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 implies usage for obtaining species-level data but lacks explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance. With 21 sibling tools, there is no mention of when to prefer this tool over alternatives like get_pokemon for basic info or get_pokemon_abilities for abilities.

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