Get Timeline Event By ID

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, idempotentHint=true, covering the safety and idempotency profile. The description adds that it returns a JSON object and mentions the HTTP method (GET) via the endpoint, but this does not significantly extend beyond the annotations.

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 four sentences that efficiently convey purpose, usage, required parameters, and API reference. It is front-loaded and contains no extraneous information.

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-by-ID tool with 6 parameters and no output schema, the description adequately covers the main aspects: what it returns (JSON), required parameters, and the endpoint. The optional pagination parameters are mentioned in the schema but their relevance to a single-record fetch is not clarified, though this is a minor gap.

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?

The input schema has 100% description coverage, so the baseline is 3. The description adds value by listing the required parameters and indicating they are URL path parameters, which clarifies the parameter structure beyond what the schema provides.

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 retrieves a single timeline event by its ID and provides full details. It specifies the resource type ('Scheduling records') and the required parameters. While it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like 'list_timeline_events,' the use of 'single' and 'by its id' implicitly distinguishes it.

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 advises using the tool to fetch full details of a specific record by identifier, providing clear context for its appropriate use. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternative tools, missing an opportunity for clearer guidance.

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