Get Consignment Tracking Statuses

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and destructiveHint=false, so the description adds value by specifying the output type (statuses) and optional date filtering. However, it does not disclose error behavior for invalid IDs, rate limits, or what 'statuses' entails beyond tracking/delivery.

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 extremely concise: one sentence for purpose followed by two parameter descriptions. No wasted words, and the essential information is front-loaded. Every sentence serves a clear purpose.

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 simple 2-parameter tool with no output schema, the description adequately covers the inputs and basic behavior. It doesn't explain the return format (e.g., array of status objects), but for a read-only tool with strong annotations, it is sufficiently 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?

Schema coverage is 100%, the descriptions in the description duplicate the schema descriptions (e.g., 'Consignment IDs', 'Only return statuses since this UTC datetime (ISO 8601)'). No additional semantics are provided beyond what the schema already conveys.

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 'returns tracking/delivery statuses for a batch of consignments', using a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like 'get_consignment' (returns single consignment details) and 'get_consignments_by_ids' (returns consignment objects) by focusing on statuses and batch processing.

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 batch use via 'batch of consignments' and the 'ids' parameter, but it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'get_consignment' or 'update_consignment_statuses'. No exclusions or when-not-to-use guidance is provided.

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