get_prices

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 explains the tool returns formatted price, market cap, volume, and change percentage, and accepts comma-separated IDs. However, it does not disclose potential rate limits, data freshness constraints, or error handling. For a simple query tool, this is acceptable but could be more transparent.

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 three sentences, front-loaded with the main purpose, and each sentence adds distinct value: what data is returned, how to specify coins, and when to use. No wasted words.

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 tool's simplicity and no output schema, the description adequately covers inputs (two parameters), output format (price, market cap, volume, change), and usage context (quick price checks). It could mention data source or limitations, but is complete for its purpose.

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% with descriptions for both parameters. The description adds that coin_ids are comma-separated CoinGecko IDs and suggests using search_coins to find them. This adds some value beyond schema but is not extensive; baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 retrieves real-time prices, market caps, 24h volume, and price change for coins. It specifies the resource (coins) and action (get), and distinguishes from siblings like get_price_history by focusing on current data. Mention of using search_coins to find IDs further clarifies scope.

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 indicates it is 'useful for quick price checks' and advises using search_coins for IDs, but does not explicitly state when not to use this tool or compare to alternatives like get_coin_details or get_price_history. The guidance is adequate but lacks exclusions or specific context for choosing among sibling tools.

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