set_tally_token

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It correctly implies a stateful mutation by saying 'Set or update' and notes the downstream effect on other tools. However, it does not disclose whether the token persists, whether it is validated, or how it affects subsequent calls beyond being 'used.'

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?

A single, focused sentence states the action, the resource, and the purpose without wasted words. The essential information is front-loaded.

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?

For a simple one-parameter setter with no output schema or annotations, the description is nearly complete. It identifies the parameter's purpose and the relationship to sibling tools. A small gap is the lack of an explicit statement that this must be called before using the Tally-related tools.

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 'token' as a non-empty string, and description coverage is 0%. The description adds that it is a Tally bearer token used by other tools, which adds real meaning. However, it does not clarify the expected token format (e.g., raw token vs 'Bearer <token>'), so it only partially compensates for the missing schema description.

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 uses a specific verb ('Set or update') with a specific resource ('the Tally bearer token') and states its purpose ('used by other tools'). This clearly differentiates it from sibling data-retrieval tools like list_categories and list_products.

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 phrase 'used by other tools' gives clear context that this is a prerequisite/setup step for the sibling tools, without explicitly stating 'call this before using the other tools.' No exclusion criteria or alternatives are needed, so this is clear context rather than fully explicit when-to-use guidance.

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