cdc_birth_indicators

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true. Description adds context that data is quarterly and provisional, and it enumerates supported topics. However, it does not disclose response structure, defaults, or edge cases, so it only modestly exceeds annotation coverage.

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 clean sentences, front-loaded with the action and object, followed by a compact list of topics. No filler or repetition, every sentence earns its place.

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-only query tool with three optional parameters and no output schema, the description adequately covers purpose, key filters, and data types. It could mention default limits or response format, but it is sufficiently complete for selection and basic invocation.

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?

Input schema describes all three parameters with valid options, achieving 100% coverage. Description reinforces the race/ethnicity and topic filters but provides no additional syntax, defaults, or value semantics beyond the schema, so baseline 3 is appropriate.

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?

Clearly states 'Get quarterly provisional birth indicators' with a specific list of indicator types (fertility, teen birth, preterm, cesarean, low birthweight) and filter dimensions (race/ethnicity). This distinguishes it from sibling CDC tools by naming the exact domain and metric types.

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?

Provides clear context: use for birth-related indicators like fertility, teen birth, preterm, etc. It does not explicitly name alternatives, but the topic list and scope make the intended use apparent, so it meets 'clear context, no exclusions'.

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