get_content

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It only states the primary action but does not disclose edge cases (e.g., file not found, path resolution), or behavior around optional parameters like snippet and query despite their existence in the schema. This leaves significant behavioral aspects undisclosed.

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, tightly worded sentence that immediately conveys the core purpose. There is no fluff or redundancy, and the information is front-loaded. For the tool's purpose, this length is appropriately concise.

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?

The tool has moderate complexity with optional snippet/query parameters and an output schema, and the schema covers parameter semantics. However, the description is thin on operational context, such as how path resolution works or when to use snippet mode. While not incomplete for basic selection, the description itself needed to provide more contextual glue; the schema partially compensates, but gaps remain.

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 description coverage is 100%, so a baseline of 3 is appropriate. The description itself does not add any parameter semantics beyond the schema, but the schema already documents each parameter (path, query, snippet, context_lines) clearly. The description neither enhances nor detracts from what the schema provides.

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's action ('Fetch the content of a file') and the resource ('indexed vault'), using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools 'search_related' and 'check_duplicates' by focusing on direct content retrieval rather than search or duplication checks.

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. It does not mention related tools or any exclusionary conditions (e.g., 'use search_related instead when looking for related content'). The intended usage is only implicitly derived from the tool's name and action.

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