get_directives_by_category

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and idempotentHint=true, so the description need not repeat safety traits. It adds the scope 'all directives in a category,' which is helpful but doesn't disclose additional behaviors like error handling or response format. This is adequate but minimal beyond annotations.

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 of five words—extremely concise with no extraneous information. It front-loads the action and resource, making it efficient for an agent to parse.

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 tool's simplicity (one param, no output schema, annotations present), the description provides minimal context. It doesn't mention return format, behavior on missing categories, or integration with related tools. Adequate but could be more complete for a new agent.

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% (only parameter 'category_name' described as 'Category name'). The description adds no extra meaning about the parameter, such as format, allowed values, or case sensitivity. Baseline 3 is appropriate since the schema does the work.

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 'Get all directives in a category' clearly states the action (get) and the resource (directives), specifying the grouping (by category). It distinguishes from siblings like get_all_directives (unfiltered) and get_directive_by_name (specific name), making the tool's purpose unambiguous.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as get_directives_by_type, search_directives, or get_all_directives. With many sibling tools, some contextual advice (e.g., 'Use when you need directives for a specific category') would significantly aid the agent.

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