list_series_release_years

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

The description adds the behavioral qualifier 'distinct', which is not present in the annotations or tool name, indicating that unique release years are returned. However, it does not disclose pagination behavior, filtering capabilities, or any operational details beyond what the readOnlyHint already provides.

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 short sentence with no wasted words. It is front-loaded and easily scannable, effectively conveying the core purpose without redundancy.

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 9 optional parameters with rich filtering capabilities and an output schema, the one-sentence description is insufficiently complete. It does not explain how to use the filters or pagination, nor does it provide enough context for an agent to understand the tool's full behavior. The readOnlyHint and output schema partially mitigate this, but significant gaps remain.

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 description coverage is 0%, and the description does not compensate for this. It fails to mention that filters like series_id, library_id, readlist_id, or collection_id can scope results, nor does it explain pagination parameters such as page, size, sort, search, and unpaged. The agent is left to guess parameter meanings from names and defaults.

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 uses the specific verb 'List' with the resource 'distinct series release years', clearly identifying the tool's function. It distinguishes from sibling tools by focusing on release years, a unique resource not covered by other list or search tools.

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 is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. There are no contextual hints, exclusions, or references to sibling tools that would help an agent choose this over search_series or get_series.

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