get_cashflow_summary

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must disclose behavioral traits. It states 'Get' implying read-only, but does not explicitly confirm no side effects, no destructive actions, or any rate limits. For a read operation, this is a minimal disclosure but lacks 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?

Two sentences, front-loaded with core purpose and a key default behavior. No unnecessary words; every sentence earns its place. Perfectly sized for quick comprehension.

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, the description lists the returned metrics (income, expenses, savings, savings rate), providing adequate context. However, it does not mention whether data is aggregated across accounts or by category, nor does it address pagination or date-range validation. Siblings like get_cashflow might offer more detail, but this tool's description suffices for its likely limited scope.

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?

Although the input schema already covers start_date and end_date with descriptions, the description adds value by stating 'Defaults to current month', clarifying default behavior when parameters are omitted. This compensates for the schema's lack of default values and aids parameter usage.

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 gets a cashflow summary with specific metrics (total income, expenses, savings, savings rate). It distinguishes from similar tools like get_cashflow or get_transactions_summary by naming output fields. However, it could clarify the scope (e.g., all accounts or selected) and is slightly vague about what 'cashflow summary' includes beyond the listed items.

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 mentions defaulting to the current month, implying optional date parameters, but provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus siblings like get_cashflow, get_transactions_summary, or get_budgets. No when-not-to-use or alternative suggestions are given.

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