files_download

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

With no annotations, the description takes responsibility for behavioral disclosure. It mentions URL expiration, authentication inclusion, and suggests immediate use. This fairly captures the non-destructive, time-sensitive nature of the operation.

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?

Well-structured with clear sections (header, workflow tips, use cases). Each sentence adds value, though some redundancy could be trimmed (e.g., 'Get download URL' and 'Returns a temporary download URL'). Still concise overall.

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 full schema coverage, the description covers purpose, behavior, and usage context adequately. No output schema exists, but the return type (temporary URL) is explained. It is sufficiently complete for agent decision-making.

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?

Input schema fully covers the single 'id' parameter. Description adds no extra semantics beyond schema, so baseline is 3. No further parameter guidance is provided.

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 'Get download URL for a file' and differentiates from file metadata or content retrieval by emphasizing the temporary download URL. It is specific to the verb 'download' and resource 'file', and distinguishes well from siblings like files_get (metadata) or files_list.

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?

Provides helpful workflow tips (URL expires, use immediately, no additional headers needed) and common use cases, but does not explicitly contrast with alternatives or state when not to use. The tips effectively guide the agent on usage context.

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