save_recipe

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

With no annotations, the description carries full responsibility for behavioral disclosure. It explicitly reveals append-only semantics ('always creates a new version, never overwrites'), notes as the only record of changes, and the requirement that fdc_id be real. This is far beyond what the schema provides and gives the agent essential non-obvious behavior.

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 front-loaded with the core purpose and then systematically explains each parameter with examples. It is dense with useful guidance and contains minimal filler, though the phrase 'the most useful field in the whole store' is somewhat editorial. Overall it is well-structured and appropriately sized.

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 tool with nested objects and no output schema, the description covers all input semantics, the append-only behavior, and the notes requirement, which is enough to invoke it correctly. It does not describe the return value or error handling, but those are less critical for a save operation. The guardrail about fdc_id is a sufficient warning.

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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It thoroughly explains plate (absolute grams per ingredient, not household total), shares (fractions of user's plate, leave empty for solo cooking), and notes (required, should describe changes). It also clarifies fdc_id must come from a real lookup. Only 'name' is left implicit, but its meaning is self-evident.

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 opens with 'Save a new version of a recipe', a specific verb and resource. It further distinguishes itself from overwriting by stating 'it never overwrites one', which clarifies its role relative to siblings like save_override. The purpose is unmistakable.

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 gives clear context on how to use the tool correctly: plate must be the user's own portion, shares is for others and should be empty when cooking alone, and fdc_id must come from a real lookup. It states 'Saves are append-only: this always creates a new version, it never overwrites one', which is an explicit when-not scenario, but it does not name an alternative tool for overwriting.

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