get_memory_by_id

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It adds a behavioral note about feedback mode, which is useful. However, it does not explicitly state that this is a read-only operation, nor does it disclose any other behavioral traits like permissions or side effects. The 'Fetch' verb implies read-only, but that's implicit.

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 sentences with no extraneous content. The primary action is front-loaded. The second sentence adds relevant conditional information. It is concise and well-structured.

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 parameter, output schema present), the description covers the core functionality and adds a special condition. It does not explain error handling or return format, but the output schema covers return values. Overall, it is sufficiently complete for a fetch-by-id tool.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It adds 'by id' which clarifies the parameter's role, but the parameter name 'memory_id' is already self-explanatory. The description does not provide format, constraints, or examples. For a single required parameter, this is minimally adequate.

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 'Fetch one memory by id' clearly states the verb and resource. It distinguishes from siblings like search_memories (which searches) and list_memories (which lists all). The purpose is specific and 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 does not provide guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives. It only mentions a conditional action (rate via rate_memory_call) but does not explain when to choose get_memory_by_id over search_memories or list_memories. No explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use.

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