get_recent_executive_orders

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

With no annotations, the description must carry the behavioral transparency burden. It implies a read-only operation via 'Get' and notes the 30-day scope, but does not disclose potential limitations like pagination, result limits, or return format. This is acceptable for a simple list tool but not fully transparent.

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 two sentences, front-loaded with the key action and timeframe. It contains no filler, and every phrase adds value—the second sentence provides a usage rationale.

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 simple nature (zero parameters, no output schema), the description covers the essential 'what' and 'when to use' adequately. It lacks details on return fields or ordering, but for a frequent-monitoring tool, the description is sufficiently complete for an agent to select and invoke it correctly.

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 tool has zero parameters, so there is nothing for the description to clarify about schema details. The baseline of 4 for no parameters is appropriate, as the description adds a temporal concept (last 30 days) that is not in 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 uses the specific verb 'Get' with the resource 'executive orders signed in the last 30 days', clearly distinguishing this as a time-scoped retrieval tool. It differentiates from siblings like search_executive_orders (search all) and get_executive_order (single order) by the explicit recency window.

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 phrase 'Useful for monitoring recent executive actions' provides a clear use case for when to invoke this tool. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or name alternatives, though the sibling list makes the differentiation implicit.

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