checkout_version

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

With no annotations, the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It states 'Check out' but does not clarify if it modifies state, requires write permissions, or is reversible. No details on side effects or concurrency are provided.

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 very concise (one sentence, 10 words), which is efficient but sacrifices essential detail. It is front-loaded but insufficiently informative for a tool with multiple 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 tool's complexity with many sibling tools and no output schema, the description fails to provide complete context. It does not explain the effect of checkout, return value, or how it relates to branches and versions.

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?

The description does not explain the 'version' parameter beyond schema. With 0% schema description coverage, it fails to add meaning such as how to obtain or interpret version numbers, leaving the agent without necessary context.

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 verb 'Check out' and resource 'table version' with a specific purpose 'for time-travel queries.' It differentiates from siblings like restore_version and list_versions by implying a query-only operation, though it could be more explicit.

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 a context (time-travel queries) but gives no explicit guidance on when to use versus alternatives like restore_version or list_versions. No when-not or prerequisite information is included.

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