get_monthly_orders

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint and destructiveHint, and the description adds useful behavioral context: one row per order, the fields returned, the authenticated-student scope, and optional filtering. The word 'read-only' mostly repeats the annotation, but the rest is additive.

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?

Two compact sentences carry purpose, row cardinality, scope, return fields, and optional filters. Every clause earns its place, and the most important information is front-loaded.

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?

For a simple read-only listing tool with an output schema and two fully documented optional parameters, this description is largely complete. The only minor gap is not specifying what happens when month is omitted, but an agent still has enough to invoke it correctly.

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 100%, so the baseline is 3. The description reinforces the month format and that student_id filters to one's own student, but it does not add meaning beyond the schema, such as default behavior when no filters are provided.

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 says exactly what the tool does: returns one row per lunch order in a calendar month, with the key fields and student scope. It is clearly distinct from sibling tools like get_daily_orders and get_orders, so an agent can tell them apart without opening schemas.

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 intended use is clear: monthly lunch-order lookups scoped to the authenticated user's students, with optional month and student filters. It does not explicitly name alternatives or exclusion conditions, but the monthly framing makes when to use it evident.

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