Get Testimonial

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the burden. It communicates a non-mutating read operation but does not disclose error behavior, return format, or authorization requirements. It is minimally transparent but not misleading.

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?

A single succinct sentence that immediately conveys the action, resource, and selection criterion with no wasted words.

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 one-parameter read operation with a clear schema and sibling context, the definition is adequate. It lacks an output schema or error-handling notes, but the simplicity of the tool keeps this a minor gap.

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 schema covers 100% of the parameter and already describes 'id' as 'The testimonial ID'. The description merely repeats 'by its ID' without adding format, example, or distinction from other identifier parameters, so it adds little beyond 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?

States a specific verb (retrieve) and resource (testimonial) scoped by ID, clearly distinguishing it from list_testimonials (which retrieves many) and create_testimonials (which creates).

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 clearly implies using this tool when you have a specific testimonial ID and need that one record. It does not explicitly mention alternatives, but the sibling names and the 'by its ID' phrase provide sufficient context.

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