affiliate_skimlinks_generate_tracking_link

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the tool returns a TrackingLink and recommends confirming programmeId first, but it doesn't mention side effects, authentication requirements, error handling, or idempotency. This is adequate but not rich.

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?

Two concise sentences with no wasted words. The first sentence states the core function, and the second adds usage guidance and return info. Information is front-loaded and easy 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?

For a tool with two parameters and no output schema or annotations, the description covers purpose, when to use, prerequisite, and return type. It's compact but sufficient for a straightforward link-generation tool, though it could hint at what a TrackingLink contains.

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 schema provides no descriptions (0% coverage), so the description must compensate. It names the parameters ('programme and destination URL') and implies that programmeId should be confirmed via list_programmes, but it adds no detail about URL format, validations, or how the TrackingLink is structured.

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 generates a tracking link on Skimlinks for a given programme and destination URL. The verb 'generate' and resource 'tracking link on Skimlinks' are specific, and it distinguishes from sibling tools by naming the Skimlinks network.

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?

It says 'Use this when the user wants to share an affiliate link to a specific product or page on a merchant they have joined,' giving a clear contextual trigger. It also advises pairing with list_programmes to confirm the programmeId, but it doesn't explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions for other networks.

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