Weather Alerts

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

No annotations are provided, so the description alone must carry behavioral disclosure. It only says 'get', which suggests a read-only operation, but it does not state whether any side effects occur, whether auth is required, rate limits, or what happens on error. For a simple getter, this is a notable gap in transparency.

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 unnecessary words. It is front-loaded with the core action and object. While it is brief, it is efficient and avoids fluff, earning a high score for conciseness without sacrificing clarity.

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 the tool's simplicity (one parameter, no output schema), the description provides a minimal but adequate foundation. It does not describe the return format or any special conditions, but for a straightforward alert retrieval, the current description may suffice. However, it could be improved by mentioning that it returns a list of alerts or any date relevance.

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 input schema already covers the single parameter fully: 'Two-letter state code (e.g. CA, NY)' with length constraints. The description adds no additional meaning beyond what the schema provides. With 100% schema description coverage, the baseline of 3 is appropriate; the description does not enhance understanding of the parameter.

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 the verb 'get' and the resource 'weather alerts for a US state', which clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools (get_forecast for forecasts, test_tool for testing). It is specific about the domain (weather) and geographic scope (US state), so an agent can understand the primary function without opening the 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 usage for any US state but does not explicitly contrast with get_forecast or mention any alternatives. There is no explicit when-not-to-use guidance or relationship to siblings. However, the context of 'US state' implies the parameter scope, so usage is reasonably clear but leaves room for ambiguity.

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