get_recent_episodes

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the burden of indicating behavior. 'Get' signals a read operation and 'most recent' implies recency ordering. However, it does not disclose what fields are returned, whether it only returns metadata, pagination behavior, or any limitations beyond the optional limit.

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 concise sentences, with the core function front-loaded and the use case stated immediately. There is no redundant or filler content.

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?

This is a simple tool with one optional parameter and no output schema, and the description provides enough context for basic invocation. It could be more complete by noting that this returns episode summaries or metadata rather than transcripts, or by differentiating from list_episodes more explicitly, but the current level is adequate.

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 documents the only parameter, limit, including its default value of 10, so schema coverage is 100%. The description adds no additional semantic detail about the parameter, so it does not elevate beyond the baseline.

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 a specific verb ('Get') with a clear resource ('the most recent episodes from the Big Technology Podcast') and adds the intended content scope ('latest tech news and discussions'). It sufficiently differentiates from siblings such as list_episodes by emphasizing recency.

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 explicitly states when to use the tool: to see the latest tech news and discussions from this podcast. It does not name alternatives or exclusions, but the use case is clear enough for an agent to select this tool for recent-episode retrieval.

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