get_hourly_forecast

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full transparency burden. It only adds the source API and default/max hour window; it does not disclose return format, how query relates to latitude/longitude, error behavior, or side-effect safety. The 'get' prefix implies read-only, but significant behavioral unknowns remain.

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 one compact sentence with no wasted words. It front-loads the primary purpose and includes the most important operational constraints. Every phrase earns its place.

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 tool has no required parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, yet the description never explains that a location (query or coordinates) is needed. It also omits what the response looks like. While schema coverage helps for parameter meaning, the overall definition is not complete enough for a new agent to invoke it with confidence.

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 high at 80%, so the schema already documents query, units, latitude, and longitude. The description adds value by stating the default of 24 hours for the hours parameter, which is not present in the schema. It does not describe all params, but the schema handles most of that burden.

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 names the tool's function: returning an hourly forecast from the Google Weather API. It distinguishes this from siblings like get_current_weather and get_daily_forecast by the temporal granularity ('hourly'). The addition of 'default 24 hours, max 240' gives immediate scope.

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 hourly weather projections but does not explicitly state when to choose this over get_daily_forecast, get_current_weather, or get_weather_dashboard. No exclusions or alternatives are named, so the agent must infer selection from the tool name and sibling names.

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