analytics_range_categories

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, indicating safe read and possible schema incompleteness. The description does not add any behavioral traits beyond 'category breakdown', such as data format, pagination, or limitations. Without additional context, the description adds minimal value over annotations.

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?

Description is concise with two sentences and trigger words. It front-loads the action. The trigger words add some redundancy but are not excessive. Overall, efficient but could be better structured with explicit parameter notes.

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?

No output schema is provided, yet the description does not explain the return format (e.g., a map of categories to amounts). Given 4 parameters and no parameter descriptions, the description is incomplete for the agent to use the tool effectively.

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?

Input schema has 4 parameters with 0% description coverage. The description only implies that startDate and endDate define a range, but does not explain paymentMethod or account, nor their constraints. This fails to compensate for the missing schema descriptions, leaving the agent without essential parameter meaning.

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?

Description clearly states the action ('Get category breakdown') and scope ('for a date range'). While it distinguishes from siblings like 'analytics_period_categories' (fixed periods) and 'analytics_range_categories_top' (top categories), it does not explicitly differentiate from 'analytics_range_categories_top' or other range tools, but the purpose is still clear.

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?

Provides a 'When to use' statement and trigger words, which give context for when to invoke this tool. However, it lacks guidance on when not to use it (e.g., for top categories) and does not mention alternatives like 'analytics_range_categories_top' for summarizing top categories.

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