query_channel_analytics

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must convey all behavioral traits. It mentions the tool is for the authenticated channel and returns tabular data, but does not disclose auth requirements, rate limits, destructive potential, or return format details. This is insufficient for a 7-parameter tool.

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 with no filler. The first sentence states the core purpose, the second adds key behaviors (tabular output, date range, grouping). Every word earns its place.

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 7 parameters and no output schema or annotations, the description is adequate but incomplete. It covers purpose and basic usage, but omits return format, pagination, error handling, and detailed behavioral context.

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 86% (high), so baseline is 3. The description adds 'Date-ranged and optionally grouped by dimensions', which repeats schema info. No additional parameter semantics beyond the schema are provided.

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 'Query YouTube Analytics for the authenticated channel', specifying the verb and resource. It differentiates from siblings like 'get_shorts_analytics' by focusing on channel-level analytics, but does not explicitly contrast with siblings.

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 lists common use cases ('views/watch-time/retention/traffic-source reports'), implying when to use the tool. However, it offers no guidance on when not to use it, nor does it mention alternatives (e.g., get_shorts_analytics for shorts).

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