get_income_statement

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

The description states 'Retrieve' implying a read-only operation, which is appropriate. No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It does not disclose behavioral traits like time period, caching, or error handling. Minimal but adequate for a simple retrieval.

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 very concise, with two sentences covering purpose, parameters, and returns. It is front-loaded with the main action. Slightly repetitive in the returns section but efficient overall.

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?

Given the presence of an output schema (as indicated by context signals), the description does not need to fully detail return fields. It states the return type but omits time period context (e.g., annual vs. quarterly). Adequate for a simple tool but could be more 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?

The description adds 'The symbol of the security' to explain the 'ticker' parameter, which goes beyond the schema's title-only specification. This provides clear meaning. However, no other parameters exist to add value.

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 it retrieves an income statement for a given ticker, using a specific verb and resource. However, it does not differentiate from the sibling tool 'get_ttm_income_statement', which specifically retrieves trailing twelve months income statement. Missing time period information creates ambiguity.

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 like get_balance_sheet, get_ttm_income_statement, or get_full_financials. No when-not-to or exclusion criteria are mentioned.

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