FreelanceOS

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

Annotations cover safety profile (read-only, idempotent), while the description adds valuable behavioral context about what data is returned ('description, duration, or billable status'), compensating for the missing output schema.

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 well-structured sentences with zero redundancy: first states the operation, second states the usage trigger. Every word serves a purpose.

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 single-parameter read operation, the description is complete. It compensates for the lack of output schema by listing representative fields returned, though explicit mention of error cases (e.g., 'entry not found') would elevate this to a 5.

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?

With 100% schema description coverage, the schema fully documents the time_entry_id parameter. The description references 'unique identifier' but adds no syntax, format, or semantic details beyond the schema's UUID pattern and description.

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 specific verb 'Retrieve' with clear resource scope 'a single time entry record by its unique identifier', effectively distinguishing it from sibling tools like time.entries.list or time.entries.aggregate which handle multiple records.

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?

Provides explicit when-to-use context ('when the freelancer asks to view the details of a specific logged time entry'), establishing the requirement for a specific ID. Lacks explicit contrast with time.entries.list for when the ID is unknown.

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