get_segment

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It states 'Read-only, safe to retry.' and mentions authentication via API key and rate limits. This provides necessary behavioral context beyond the schema.

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?

Well-structured with sections (description, usage, auth, params, returns, example). Every sentence is informative and front-loaded with the core purpose. Slightly long but justified by completeness.

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?

Very complete for a 2-param read-only tool. Description details return fields, provides example, references sibling tools for prerequisites. Even though output schema exists (not shown), description compensates well.

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 0%, but description adds meaning: list_id is 'The Mailchimp audience/list ID (e.g. 'abc123def4'). Obtain from list_audiences.' and segment_id is 'The segment ID (numeric string, e.g. '12345'). Obtain from list_segments.' This adds significant context beyond the raw schema, though still could be more precise about format.

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?

Description clearly states 'Retrieve full details of a specific segment including member count and filter conditions.' It specifies the verb (retrieve), resource (segment), and what is returned. It distinguishes from siblings like list_segments (browse all) and list_segment_members (individual members).

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 guidance: 'Use to inspect a segment's conditions or verify its type and member count. Use list_segments to browse all segments. Use list_segment_members to see individual members.' Also mentions authentication and rate limits, helping the agent decide when to use this tool.

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