Get Semester Grades

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It does disclose the read-only nature ('Return') and the output contents (letter grades, grade points, pass/fail flags). However, it does not explain what happens when the optional semester parameter is omitted, what format semester takes, or whether authentication is required, which are material behavioral gaps.

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?

A single, front-loaded sentence states the core behavior and return contents with no filler. Every word earns its place.

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?

The tool is simple and has an output schema, so the description does not need to enumerate return values. However, it is incomplete regarding the semester parameter's format and null behavior, and it does not route the agent to obs_list_semesters for valid semester identifiers.

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 has 0% description coverage, so the description must compensate, but it only repeats the idea that the tool covers 'one semester.' It provides no format for the semester value, no default behavior for null, and no pointer to obs_list_semesters for valid values.

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 and resource: 'Return the final letter grades for one semester, with grade points and pass/fail flags.' It clearly distinguishes this from siblings like obs_get_interim_grades by specifying 'final' grades, and from broader tools like obs_get_transcript by scoping to one semester.

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 phrase 'final letter grades for one semester' implies this is for final semester grades rather than interim or cumulative results, but it never explicitly states when to use this tool versus alternatives. With siblings like obs_get_interim_grades available, naming the alternative or exclusion criteria would have strengthened this dimension.

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