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microbiomedata

nmdc-mcp

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get_study_for_biosample

Retrieve the study and metadata linked to a biosample ID. Identify which study a biosample belongs to.

Instructions

Use this tool to find the study associated with a specific biosample. Returns study information and metadata.

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
biosample_idYes
Behavior2/5

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It only states that it returns study information and metadata, but does not describe what happens if the biosample is not found, error behavior, or any side effects. For a simple lookup, this is borderline adequate but lacks depth.

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

Conciseness4/5

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

The description is very short with two sentences, no redundant information. However, it is so brief that it sacrifices completeness. It could include more details without being verbose.

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

Completeness2/5

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

Given the simplicity (1 param, no output schema, no annotations), the description should still cover common questions like return format, error handling, or typical use. It fails to provide enough context for confident tool invocation.

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

Parameters2/5

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

The single parameter 'biosample_id' is only defined as a required string in the schema. The description does not add any additional meaning (e.g., format, examples, or constraints), and schema description coverage is 0%, so it fails to compensate.

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

Purpose4/5

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

The description clearly states the verb 'find' and the resource 'study associated with a specific biosample'. It is specific enough to differentiate from sibling tools that fetch biosamples or studies separately, though it does not explicitly distinguish itself.

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

Usage Guidelines2/5

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

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description lacks context about prerequisites (e.g., must have a biosample_id) or when not to use it. Sibling tools like 'get_biosamples_for_study' suggest alternative use cases, but no comparison is made.

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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