Place order

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses the core side effects (placing the order and clearing the cart) and the requirement of an authenticated user. However, it does not mention what happens on failure (e.g., expired quote), permissions, or the return value, leaving some behavioral gaps.

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 sentence that efficiently conveys the action, prerequisite, and side effect. Every word earns its place, and the most important information is front-loaded.

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 two-parameter tool with no output schema, the description covers the essential action and side effects. However, it omits details about the response format, error conditions (e.g., expired checkout quote), and any post-conditions beyond clearing the cart. These gaps prevent a higher score.

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 provides 100% coverage of parameters, including descriptions for checkout_id and shipping_address. The description adds context that the checkout quote must be unexpired, but it does not add meaningful semantics beyond what the schema already states. 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 uses the specific verb 'Place' and names the resource 'authenticated user order', with a clear precondition ('from an unexpired checkout quote') and a distinct side effect ('clear the cart'). This clearly differentiates it from siblings like checkout, get_order, and cancel_order.

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 'from an unexpired checkout quote' implies that the tool should be used after checkout and with a valid checkout_id. However, it does not explicitly state when to prefer this over alternatives, nor does it mention any exclusion conditions. The guidance is present but implicit.

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