get_env

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

No annotations were provided, so the description carries the burden of disclosing behavior. 'Get' indicates a read operation, but the description does not explain what happens if the id doesn't exist, whether the value is returned, or if any permissions are needed. For a simple getter, this is adequate but not rich.

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 one short sentence that is front-loaded and contains no fluff. Every word earns its place.

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 (one parameter, no output schema, no annotations), the description is mostly adequate. It clearly states the purpose. However, it could mention the return format or read-only nature, but these are largely implied by the name and description. This is slightly above minimum viable.

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 one parameter (id) with 100% description coverage ('Env var id (required)'). The description's phrase 'by id' adds minimal extra meaning beyond the schema, so it does not significantly enhance understanding.

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 'Get a single environment variable by id' uses a specific verb (get) and resource (environment variable) with a clear scope (single, by id). This distinguishes it from siblings like list_envs (list all) and update_env/delete_envs (mutations).

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 implies when to use this tool (when you need a single env var by id) but does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use it. For example, it doesn't say 'use list_envs to fetch all variables' or 'use get_config for config values.' The context is clear but not explicitly stated.

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