zmanim_get_mincha_times

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

Beyond annotations (readOnlyHint, idempotentHint), the description explains the meaning of Mincha Gedola, Mincha Ketana, and Plag HaMincha, providing useful context about what the tool calculates. It does not cover rate limits or auth, but annotations already declare safety.

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 concise, front-loads the main purpose, and includes a helpful bullet list of times. No extraneous information, though it could be slightly more streamlined.

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 annotations and well-described schema, the description adequately explains the tool's output (three Mincha times) and their definitions. It is complete for a specific prayer-time tool, though it does not mention the reliance on Jewish calendar calculations (inherent).

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 input schema already has detailed descriptions for each property (location, latitude, etc.), so schema coverage is high. The tool description only restates that params contain location and date, adding no extra meaning 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 'Get the times for Mincha' with specific verb and resource, and lists the three distinct times (Mincha Gedola, Mincha Ketana, Plag HaMincha). It distinguishes from sibling tools which target other prayer times or daily times.

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 explicit guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives like zmanim_get_shema_times or zmanim_get_shabbat_times. The agent must rely on tool names to differentiate. No when-not or alternative mentions.

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