forex_rate

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

With no annotations, the description carries full disclosure burden. It only states the tool gets a rate from Alpha Vantage, omitting behavioral details like real-time vs. delayed data, rate limits, authentication requirements, or response format. The 'api_key' parameter hints at auth, but no explanation is given.

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, which is concise but over-simplified. It lacks structure and fails to front-load essential usage details. It is too sparse for a tool with 3 parameters and many siblings.

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 lack of output schema, annotations, and sibling complexity, the description is severely incomplete. It does not explain the return value (e.g., exchange rate value, currency, timestamp) or how it differs from forex_convert or forex_latest. The tool requires more context to be effectively used.

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 description coverage is 0%, and the description adds no parameter explanations. While 'from_currency' and 'to_currency' are intuitively currency codes, 'api_key' is left ambiguous (optional? default key?). The description should clarify parameter semantics, e.g., expected format (ISO codes) or key source.

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 clearly states the action (Get), the resource (forex exchange rate), and the data source (Alpha Vantage). It distinguishes from sibling forex tools like forex_convert, forex_historical, etc., by specifying it retrieves a single rate without conversion or historical data.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus other forex tools (e.g., forex_convert, forex_latest). There is no mention of prerequisites, such as the need for an API key, or situations where this tool is preferred over alternatives.

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