parse_shifts_text

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries full burden. It states 'parse' implying a read-only transformation, but does not explicitly confirm no side effects, authentication requirements, or output format. The description is adequate but could be more explicit.

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 sentence with an illustrative example, front-loading the purpose. It is efficient, though a brief additional sentence on usage or output could enhance clarity without harming conciseness.

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 existence of an output schema, the description need not explain return values, but it lacks details on supported text formats beyond the example. The tool has two parameters, but the description does not specify constraints or behavior, leaving the agent underinformed.

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 0%, yet the description only gives an example and does not describe the parameters. The 'text' parameter is implied by the example, but 'default_timezone' is not explained. The description adds minimal semantic value beyond the schema.

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 parses text lines and provides an example format, making the purpose evident. However, it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like create_supershift_shifts_from_text, which likely combine parsing with creation.

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 parser versus similar siblings (e.g., create_supershift_shifts_from_text). The tool likely extracts structured data, but there is no mention of prerequisites, context, or alternatives.

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