metering__create_meter

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

No annotations provided, so description must carry full burden. It mentions returns meter_id and explains unit and price, but lacks disclosure on idempotency, side effects, authorization needs, or behavior if meter already exists. Minimal transparency for a creation 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 short and front-loaded with purpose. The bracketed tag adds noise but does not waste many characters. Efficient overall, though the tag could be removed.

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 6 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is insufficient. It lacks details on agent prerequisites, meter uniqueness, return format beyond meter_id, and relationship to other metering tools. Significant gaps for a creation operation.

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 0%, so description adds meaning. It explains 'unit' (what is counted) and 'price_minor_per_unit' (cents per unit). But provider, consumer, currency, sla_target are not described. Partial compensation but insufficient for all 6 parameters.

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 'Create a usage meter between a provider and a consumer agent,' specifying the verb and resource. It distinguishes from siblings like metering__list_meters and metering__record_usage by focusing on creation. The mention of 'usage metering + SLA accounting' adds context.

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?

Usage is implied: use to create a meter. But no explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use, nor comparisons to alternatives like metering__list_meters or metering__record_usage. The description lacks guidance on prerequisites or scenario selection.

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