get_recent_checkins

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

No annotations are provided, so the description bears full burden. It does not disclose whether the tool is read-only, requires authentication, or what the output format is. The only behavior implied is fetching check-ins, with no additional constraints or side effects.

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 that conveys the core purpose efficiently. No redundant words. However, it is somewhat terse and could benefit from additional context without sacrificing 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 presence of 11 sibling tools and no output schema, the description is insufficient. It does not explain what is meant by 'check-ins' (e.g., details vs. summary), or if it applies to the current user or all users. An agent might confuse this with other checkin tools.

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%, and each parameter has a clear description in the schema. The tool description repeats the concept of 'past X days' but does not add new meaning beyond the schema. Baseline score of 3 is appropriate as description adds no extra value.

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 check-ins from a recent time period. The verb 'Get' and resource 'check-ins' with the qualifier 'from the past X days' aligns with the tool name. However, it does not explicitly distinguish it from sibling tools like 'get_checkins_by_date_range', which could also handle recent ranges.

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. There is no mention of when not to use it, such as for custom date ranges or historical data. The agent would need to infer from the name and description alone.

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