Get Account

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

The annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, so the description does not need to restate that this is a safe read. However, the description adds no behavioral context beyond the annotations—it does not mention error behavior, what 'details' are included, or any limitations. With annotation coverage in place, the description contributes little additional transparency.

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?

One short, front-loaded sentence with no filler. Every word earns its place, and the key information—verb, resource, and parameter—is immediately visible.

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 single-parameter, read-only lookup with full schema coverage and safety annotations, the description is nearly complete. It explains what the tool does and what input it needs. A minor gap is that it does not hint at what 'details' are returned, but for this simple tool that is not a significant omission.

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 account_id as 'The Canvas account ID' with 100% coverage, so the baseline applies. The description's 'by ID' mirrors the schema without adding new semantic detail such as format, range, or where to find valid IDs.

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 states a specific verb ('Get'), a specific resource ('Canvas account'), and the lookup key ('by ID'). It clearly distinguishes this from sibling tools like list_accounts or list_sub_accounts, which are list operations, while this is a single-account fetch.

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 implies the tool is used when you have an account ID and need its details, but it does not explicitly state when to prefer this over alternatives such as list_accounts or list_sub_accounts. There is no exclusion or alternative guidance, so the usage context is clear but not fully elaborated.

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