compare_database_options

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and idempotentHint=true, so the description does not need to repeat safety traits. It adds no additional behavioral details beyond what annotations provide. A score of 3 is appropriate as the description is adequate but not enriched.

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 waste, but it is very minimal. It earns a 4 for conciseness but loses a point because it may be under-specified for the tool's purpose.

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 has no output schema, and the description does not indicate what the comparison returns (e.g., cost, features, performance). It lacks differentiation from sibling tools and does not mention handling of multiple workload types. Given the tool's simplicity, more context is needed for completeness.

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% for the single parameter 'workloadType', which has an enum and a simple description 'Workload type'. The description does not add any extra meaning beyond the schema's definition, so baseline 3 is correct.

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 'Compare database options for a specific workload type.' The verb 'compare' and resource 'database options' are clear, and it distinguishes from sibling tools like 'list_database_options' (listing) and 'calculate_database_cost' (cost calculation). However, 'options' is somewhat vague, preventing a 5.

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 tool versus alternatives such as 'list_database_options' or 'calculate_database_cost'. The description only mentions the workload type but does not explain the context or conditions for using this compare tool.

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