get_nic

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

With no annotations, the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. 'Get details' implies a read operation but does not explicitly state read-only, no side effects, or what 'details' entails (e.g., IP, MAC, status). The description is too vague for an unannotated tool.

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 a single sentence with no filler words. It efficiently conveys the core purpose. It is appropriately sized for a simple retrieval tool.

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 lack of output schema, the description should hint at the response structure (e.g., NIC properties). It does not. However, the tool is simple with three required parameters, so the description is minimally adequate but not fully informative.

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 description coverage is 100% with each parameter defined as 'the ID of ...'. The description adds no extra meaning beyond the schema, so baseline 3 is appropriate. However, the hierarchical relationship (datacenter → server → NIC) is implied but not explained.

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 verb 'Get' and the resource 'details of a specific network interface (NIC)', which distinguishes it from sibling list tools like list_nics that return multiple NICs. The specificity is high.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as list_nics (to find NIC IDs) or other get_* tools. No usage context or prerequisites are mentioned beyond what the schema requires.

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