get_alerts

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It does not disclose behavioral traits like read-only status, rate limits, authentication requirements, or behavior for invalid state codes. Only states it gets alerts, leaving agent uninformed about important behaviors.

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 short and front-loaded with the main purpose. The 'Args:' section is efficiently formatted. It contains no fluff, but could be more concise by integrating the parameter format into the main sentence.

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 tool (1 param, output schema present), the description is adequate but minimal. It does not mention that alerts are only for US states or provide any usage examples. The output schema reduces the need to describe return values, but additional context like geographical scope could improve completeness.

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 description must compensate. It adds meaning by specifying the exact format 'Two-letter US state code' and provides examples ('CA, NY'), which goes beyond the schema's mere type definition.

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 uses a specific verb 'Get' and resource 'weather alerts' with clear scope 'for a US state'. It distinguishes from sibling tool 'get_forecast' which presumably provides forecasts instead of alerts.

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 usage when alerts are needed for a US state, but provides no explicit guidance on when to use this tool over 'get_forecast' or any exclusions. No alternatives or when-not-to-use are mentioned.

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