Get Service Catalog Item

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 disclosing behavioral traits. While 'retrieve' implies a read-only operation, the description does not explicitly state that it is non-destructive, does not cover error handling, permissions, or what data is returned. This is a minimal paraphrase of the title that adds little 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?

The description is a single, well-structured sentence that directly states the tool's purpose. It contains no redundant words or irrelevant information, making it highly concise while remaining readable.

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 is very simple with one parameter and no output schema. The description adequately states the basic action, but it lacks explicit mention of the return value content ('details' is vague) and does not distinguish itself from sibling tools. For such a simple operation, this is minimally viable but not complete.

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 coverage is 100% (item_id is fully described as 'The catalog item ID'), so the schema already documents the parameter. The description adds no additional semantic meaning beyond the schema, which aligns with the baseline score of 3.

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 uses the verb 'retrieve' and clearly identifies the resource as 'a specific service catalog item', which distinguishes it from sibling tools like list_service_catalog_items. However, it does not explicitly mention the item_id parameter or contrast with list_service_catalog_items, so it's clear but not fully differentiated.

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 doesn't mention that this is for a single item by ID, nor does it note the availability of list_service_catalog_items for listing all items. Usage is only implied by the word 'specific', but no explicit context or exclusions are provided.

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