ebay_get_notification_public_key

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose all behavioral traits. It only states 'Get', implying a read-only operation, but does not mention side effects, required permissions, error cases (e.g., key not found), or any limitations. The description is insufficient for an agent to understand the tool's full behavior.

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 a single, concise sentence with no wasted words. It is appropriately front-loaded with the key action. However, it could include more useful information without becoming verbose.

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 tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description is minimally adequate. But it lacks details on what the response contains (the public key value) and any prerequisites, making it somewhat incomplete for an agent to fully understand the tool's output and usage context.

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% (publicKeyId is described as 'The unique identifier for the public key'). The tool description adds no further meaning beyond the schema. Since schema already covers parameters well, baseline 3 is appropriate.

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: 'Get a public key for verifying notification signatures'. It uses a specific verb 'Get' and a clear resource 'public key', with the purpose of verifying signatures. This distinguishes it from sibling notification tools which manage configs, destinations, subscriptions, etc.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It does not mention prerequisites, such as needing a publicKeyId from prior steps, nor does it explain when signature verification is needed. Sibling tools like ebay_get_notification_config or ebay_get_notification_destination serve different purposes, but no context is provided for comparison.

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