fred_md

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, destructiveHint=false, and idempotentHint=true. The description adds that it returns monthly data and that date must be between '2015-01' and now, which is useful. However, it does not explain what columns or factors are included, and the paper abstract at the top is not behavioral disclosure.

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 first two sentences are an academic abstract that is irrelevant to using the tool, pushing the operational docstring to the end. This is not concise or front-loaded; it wastes the user's attention.

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?

There is no output schema, so the description must explain the return structure. It only says 'Monthly Data' with no column details. The tool's relationship to FRED-MD factors and diffusion indexes is hinted but not specified. The single parameter is documented, but the overall data shape and semantics are unclear.

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?

The schema only defines a string 'date' with no description, while the description provides a format example ('2020-03'), a valid range ('2015-01' to now), and the type. This significantly clarifies the parameter 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 leads with a paper abstract rather than a clear verb+resource statement. The only functional hint is ':return: Monthly Data', but the tool's action (fetch/retrieve) is never explicitly stated. The name fred_md implies FRED-MD dataset, but the description lacks a direct statement of what the tool does.

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 guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives. It does not mention sibling tools like fred_qd or other macro data tools, nor any exclusions or prerequisites. The date parameter example is the only context, but it doesn't help with tool selection.

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