Get Transaction Categories

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, confirming a safe read operation. The description adds behavioral context by detailing the two output formats (compact vs. full) and their use cases, going beyond the annotation's minimal information.

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 concise with a clear Args/Returns structure. Every sentence adds value, no fluff. It is appropriately front-loaded with the core purpose, and the parameter details are well-organized.

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 list tool with an output schema, the description covers the essential behavior and parameter semantics. It does not mention if categories are filterable or how they relate to transactions, but these are not critical given the tool's narrow 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?

Schema description coverage is 0%, but the description fully compensates by exhaustively explaining the single 'verbose' parameter: its default, both output modes, their structure, and when to use each. This adds significant meaning beyond the schema.

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 states 'List all transaction categories.' This is a clear verb+resource combination. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools (e.g., get_transactions, get_budgets) by focusing specifically on categories, which no other tool covers.

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 explicit guidance for the verbose parameter, explaining when to use each mode (e.g., compact mode for lookups, full mode for details). However, it does not include explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use context relative to alternatives, though the tool's uniqueness makes this less critical.

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