fred_release_data

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

With readOnlyHint=true, the description adds 'bulk' to imply multiple series are returned, but it does not describe the output structure, pagination, or limits. The common ID list is operational context, not behavioral, so it adds minimal value beyond annotations.

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 short lines; the first line states the purpose, the second provides relevant examples. No wasted words, front-loaded.

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 2-param tool with no output schema, the description is adequate but doesn't explain what the response contains or how the release relates to series data. It lacks alternative tool guidance and return format, leaving agents to infer behavior.

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%, so baseline is 3. The description adds example release IDs (53, 50, 10, 18) beyond the schema's single example, but the 'limit' param semantics ('Max obs') remain ambiguous and the description doesn't clarify.

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 clear action ('Bulk fetch') and resource ('a FRED release'), with examples of common release IDs. It does not explicitly differentiate from sibling FRED tools like fred_series_data or fred_search, but the resource scope (release vs series) is implicitly clear.

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 it's used for fetching all data for a specific release and provides common release IDs, but it doesn't state when to prefer this over fred_search or fred_series_data, nor does it mention any prerequisites like knowing the release ID.

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