nhtsa_safety_rating_detail

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

Description adds some value beyond annotations by listing returned content (crash test ratings, rollover risk, safety technology assessments). Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true, so no contradiction. Does not disclose potential limits or costs.

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?

Two sentences, no fluff. Front-loaded purpose, followed by prerequisite and return overview. Every sentence is necessary.

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 no output schema, description adequately covers return content. Single parameter is well-contextualized. Could mention read-only nature but annotation covers it. Complete for a detail tool.

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?

Schema has 100% coverage, but description adds meaning: specifies VehicleId comes from nhtsa_safety_ratings and provides example (19950). This enhances parameter understanding beyond 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?

Description clearly states verb 'Get detailed NHTSA 5-star safety ratings' for a specific vehicle variant, differentiates from sibling nhtsa_safety_ratings by requiring a VehicleId from that search.

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?

Explicitly mentions prerequisite: 'Requires a VehicleId from nhtsa_safety_ratings search results'. Implicitly guides usage after sibling search tool, but lacks explicit when-not or alternatives.

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