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lzinga

US Government Open Data MCP

calc_suggest

Read-only

Find exact values for labor categories, vendor names, or contract numbers in GSA CALC+ data by typing a prefix. Uses contains matching with a minimum of 2 characters.

Instructions

Autocomplete/suggest values for labor categories, vendor names, or contract numbers in GSA CALC+ data. Useful for finding exact values to use in calc_search_rates. Uses 'contains' matching (2 char min).

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
fieldYesField to suggest values for
prefixYesSearch prefix (2 character minimum) - e.g. 'soft' for software categories, 'Booz' for Booz Allen
Behavior4/5

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

Annotations already provide readOnlyHint=true. The description adds behavioral details: uses 'contains' matching and requires 2 character minimum, which goes beyond what annotations convey, though it doesn't discuss pagination or result limits.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Three concise sentences, no redundant information. Purpose is front-loaded, with usage hints and behavior details efficiently included.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a simple 2-parameter tool with no output schema, the description fully covers purpose, usage, and behavioral constraints. It also connects to sibling tool calc_search_rates, providing sufficient context for an agent.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema already covers both parameters with descriptions (100% coverage). The description adds examples for prefix values but does not provide significant additional meaning beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

Clearly states the tool provides autocomplete/suggest values for three specific fields (labor categories, vendor names, contract numbers) in GSA CALC+ data, and distinguishes itself from sibling tools like calc_search_rates by indicating its preparatory role.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly states the tool is useful for finding exact values to use in calc_search_rates, giving clear usage context. Mentions 'contains' matching and 2 character minimum, but no explicit when-not-to-use scenarios.

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

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