get_dterm_notch_cutoff

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

No annotations are provided, and the description only mentions the data type and default value. It does not disclose that the tool performs a read-only operation with no side effects, nor does it describe any potential permissions or safety considerations. The agent is left to infer behavior from the tool name.

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 sentence with additional type and default info in brackets, making it highly concise and front-loaded with essential information. No wasted words.

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 simple read tool with no output schema, the description provides the core purpose and type. However, it does not specify the return format or that it returns the current value. Given the high number of similar get_ siblings, a bit more context (e.g., 'returns current value as integer') would improve 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?

The tool has no parameters, and the description adds value by specifying the type (UINT16) and default value (0), which goes beyond the empty schema. This helps the agent understand what the returned value represents.

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 that the tool retrieves the 'Static D-term notch bandwidth' value, distinguishing it from sibling tools like get_dterm_notch_hz which retrieves the notch frequency. The verb 'Get' combined with the resource 'dterm_notch_cutoff' makes the purpose explicit.

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?

No explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like get_dterm_notch_hz or set_dterm_notch_cutoff. However, the naming convention and pattern of get_ tools implicitly indicate its usage for reading the configuration parameter, making it adequate but not exemplary.

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