How to get a cogDepot account

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

While annotations already declare readOnlyHint and idempotentHint, the description adds valuable context: 'Requires no API key and spends no credits' (auth/cost details) and 'Returns instructions for a human or agent to follow' (output nature). It also clarifies it does not send requests, which is beyond the annotations. No contradictions.

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 well-structured and front-loaded: purpose first, then usage context, coverage, return type, and exclusions. Every sentence earns its place, and it remains concise despite covering many aspects.

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 no parameters and no output schema, the description is fully complete. It explains what the tool does, when to use it, what it covers, what it returns, and what it deliberately does not do. The agent has all necessary information to invoke it correctly.

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 zero parameters, so schema coverage is 100%. The baseline for 0 params is 4, and the description appropriately mentions no parameter-specific details since none exist. It does not need to add anything further.

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's purpose with a specific verb ('Explains') and resource ('how to obtain a cogDepot API key and become able to trade'). It distinguishes itself from the sibling tool by explicitly identifying when to use it (when user has no account or another tool reported a missing/unfunded key) and what it does not do.

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?

Explicit usage guidance is provided: 'this is the tool to call when the user has no cogDepot account yet, or when another tool has reported a missing or unfunded key.' It also clearly states exclusions ('does NOT create an account... does not send any request'), giving the agent clear decision criteria.

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