getStockGrades

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint and idempotentHint, so the description adds context about the data's nature (grading actions over time). No contradiction. However, no additional behavioral traits (e.g., pagination, rate limits) are disclosed beyond what annotations cover. The bar is lowered due to annotation richness, and the description complements well.

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 the core purpose. Somewhat verbose with 'from top analysts and financial institutions with the FMP Grades API' but overall efficient and clear.

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?

For a simple single-parameter tool with no output schema and annotations covering safety, the description adequately explains what the tool returns (stock grades, grading actions). It could mention return format or scope, but is sufficiently complete for basic usage.

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 a clear parameter description ('Stock symbol'). The description mentions 'specific stock symbols' but adds no syntax or constraints beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate as schema already documents the parameter.

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 it retrieves latest stock grades from analysts and financial institutions, explicitly mentioning grading actions (upgrades, downgrades, maintained). It distinguishes from sibling getHistoricalStockGrades by emphasizing 'latest'. Verb 'Access' + resource 'stock grades' provides specific purpose.

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?

No explicit guidance on when to use this vs alternatives like getStockGradeSummary, getStockGradeLatestNews, or getStockGradeNews. The description implies it's for latest grades but does not contrast with similar tools or provide exclusions.

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