Get categories for a specific path

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

The annotations declare readOnlyHint=true, and the description uses 'Retrieves', which is consistent. However, beyond confirming it's a read operation, the description adds little behavioral context such as authentication requirements, rate limits, or what happens if the path does not exist. The optional includes are mentioned but not explained in depth.

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 a single sentence that is front-loaded with the core action and resource. It contains no unnecessary words and is efficient.

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?

With 6 parameters and no output schema, the description is adequate but could be more complete. It does not explain pagination behavior (page, perPage), the effect of descendantPosts, or the return format. The schema provides parameter details, but the agent may lack context on how to compose a request or interpret results.

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 input schema covers all 6 parameters with descriptions, achieving 100% schema coverage. The description adds minimal extra meaning beyond the schema, only hinting at the 'include' parameter's effect. The baseline of 3 is appropriate since the schema does the heavy lifting.

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 verb 'retrieves' and the resource 'category information and subcategories for a specific category path'. It also mentions the optional inclusion of posts and parent categories. This distinguishes it from siblings like esa_get_all_category_paths or esa_get_top_categories, which do not target a specific path or include posts.

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 for retrieving categories along a path, but it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like esa_get_top_categories or esa_get_all_category_paths. No when-not guidance or alternative mentions are present.

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