get_league_snapshots

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the tool returns a time series with composite scores, per-dimension breakdowns, change, trajectory, and confidence. This is sufficient transparency for a read-only data retrieval tool, though it omits details like authentication or rate limits.

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 three paragraphs, which is somewhat lengthy but well-structured. It introduces the tool, details the dimensions, and provides a usage line. A minor redundancy exists (composite score mentioned twice), but overall it is efficient.

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 has an output schema, the description does not need to detail return values. It adequately explains the concepts (time series, dimensions, change, trajectory, confidence). However, it could mention data freshness or update frequency for full completeness.

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%, so baseline is 3. The description does not add new meaning beyond the schema; it repeats league_id and limit. The additional detail about 'most recent first' is already in the schema's limit description.

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 the tool retrieves historical valuation snapshots for a league, using a stock price chart analogy. It lists the 6 weighted dimensions and what each snapshot includes, distinguishing it from siblings like 'get_league_momentum' or 'compare_league_trajectories'.

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 includes a usage statement ('Use this to understand how a league's value has changed over time') but does not provide explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance, nor does it compare to alternative tools among the siblings.

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