Get IndexNow Status

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so safety is covered; the description adds real value by disclosing the return contents, including the diagnostic 'why not if inactive' and key-file verification state. It goes beyond the annotation by telling the agent what it will learn, though it does not mention pagination or limits on 'recent submissions'.

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 tight sentences: the first grounds the concept, the second front-loads the returned information. No filler and no repetition of the title.

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?

With no output schema, the description carries the burden of explaining returns and largely does so, covering active state, key URL, verification, totals, and HTTP results. It falls just short on the shape of 'recent submissions' (count, ordering, time window), which is a minor gap for a zero-param diagnostic tool.

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?

There are zero parameters and 100% schema coverage, so the baseline is 4. There is nothing to clarify 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?

States a specific verb and resource (return IndexNow status) and even defines what IndexNow is, then enumerates the exact fields returned. It is cleanly distinguishable from the sibling set_indexnow_enabled (write) and submit_indexnow (action) without opening any schema.

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 implies a diagnostic/monitoring use case (checking active state and why it is inactive), but never says when to reach for this vs. set_indexnow_enabled or submit_indexnow, and offers no explicit conditions or exclusions. Usage is inferable but not stated.

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