Review Deck

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses the data source ('read live from data/decks.json') and hints at read-only behavior by stating it 'returns' and 'displays' flashcards. No destructive actions are implied, adding needed 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 concise with 4 sentences, each adding necessary information: purpose, available decks, comparison to sibling, and data source. No redundant or vague language.

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's simplicity (1 optional parameter, no nested objects, no annotations) and the existence of an output schema, the description covers all needed context: what it does, which decks exist, how to use the parameter, and where data comes from. No 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?

Schema coverage is 100%, so baseline is 3. The description adds extra value by listing available deck names (making selection easier) and explaining the fallback behavior when the deck name is omitted or invalid, which the schema does not cover.

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 function: returning flashcards of a single deck and displaying them as an interactive review, prioritizing due cards. It lists specific available decks and distinguishes from the sibling 'study' tool by noting that 'study' reviews a whole category, while 'review_deck' is for a single deck.

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 mentions an alternative tool ('study' for whole categories) and explains default behavior when the deck name is omitted or unknown. It does not explicitly state when not to use this tool, but the guidance is clear enough for an agent.

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