upgrade_request

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

With no annotations, the description carries the transparency burden. It discloses that it returns eligibility and waitlist position, but it does not mention whether the request modifies the reservation, deducts miles immediately, or incurs fees, which are significant behavioral traits for a tool that handles upgrades.

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 two short sentences, front-loaded with the action and resource, and includes a concise summary of return behavior. Every word earns its place, with no filler or redundancy.

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?

The tool lacks an output schema, but the description does mention return values. However, it omits key context such as prerequisites, whether miles are deducted, and what happens after the request. Given the tool's potential financial impact, this is a notable gap that prevents a higher score.

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?

All three parameters have schema descriptions, and the description references upgrade types via 'using miles or elite status,' but it adds no additional semantic detail beyond the schema. The upgradeType enum is self-explanatory, so the description provides only marginal value here.

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 ('Request') and resource ('upgrade on an American Airlines flight'), clearly distinguishing it from sibling tools like cancel_trip or select_seats. It also specifies the method (miles or elite status) and the expected outcome (eligibility and waitlist position).

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 when a user wants to upgrade a flight, but it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives or any exclusions. No guidance is provided on prerequisites such as being checked in, fare eligibility, or when an upgrade request is appropriate.

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