verify_citation

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

There are no annotations, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses the underlying data sources (Crossref with Retraction Watch) and the OpenAlex fallback when no DOI is given, which is genuinely informative. It does not describe output format or error behavior, but the data-source and fallback transparency is solid.

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 focused sentences with no redundancy. It front-loads the action and specific checks, then provides data sources and input guidance. Every sentence contributes value.

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?

Purpose, data sources, fallback behavior, and required input are all covered. However, there is no output schema and the description does not indicate what the tool returns, leaving an agent without a clear picture of the verdict/report shape.

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?

With 0% schema coverage, the description compensates by naming all relevant fields (doi, title, authors, year, journal) and by stating the key requirement to provide a DOI and/or title. This adds meaning beyond the all-optional schema, though it lacks format examples.

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 states a specific action ('Verify a citation') and defines what verification means: existence, retraction status, and field matching against the canonical record. This makes the tool's purpose concrete and clearly distinct from the sibling verify_url.

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?

Usage is implied from the purpose, and the description does give an input requirement ('Provide a doi and/or a title'). However, it never explicitly addresses when to prefer verify_citation over verify_url or when not to use it, leaving the choice to inference.

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