add_snapshot

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses that it syncs external data (Finnhub) and records a snapshot, but it does not state whether the operation is idempotent, what happens if run multiple times, or any error conditions. Some behavioral context is present, but gaps remain.

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?

Two efficient sentences with no waste. The first sentence states the action, the second provides context on necessity.

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 no output schema or annotations, the description should ideally cover more behavioral aspects such as return value, side effects, or idempotency. It only gives minimal context, leaving the agent uninformed about result expectations or failure modes.

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 tool has zero parameters, and schema coverage is 100% (trivially). Per guidelines, the baseline for 0 parameters is 4. The description adds no parameter information because none is needed.

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 that the tool syncs latest prices from Finnhub and records a portfolio snapshot for today, with the verb-resource pair well-defined. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like show_snapshot and sync_prices by noting it is required before snapshot data is useful.

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 a clear context for when to use the tool ('Required before snapshot data is useful'), implying it is a prerequisite. However, it does not explicitly mention when not to use it or list alternatives, but the context is strong enough to guide usage.

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