get_cart

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

No annotations provided, so the description must disclose behavior. It explicitly uses 'Retrieve' and 'Gets', indicating a read-only operation, and lists the included content (items, quantities, pricing, totals). However, it does not discuss error conditions, permissions, or whether it creates a cart if missing, leaving some gaps.

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 key action and then expanding on the response contents. No waste.

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 is simple with one parameter and an output schema, so the description need not detail return values. It covers the purpose and key aspects of the response. Missing edge-case behavior but adequate given the output schema.

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 schema already fully describes cart_key as a UUID. The description only repeats 'by cart key' without adding formatting or semantic details, so it does not add value beyond the schema. Baseline 3 applies.

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 action ('Retrieve') and the resource ('shopping cart contents') and specifies the access method ('by cart key'). It distinguishes from sibling tools by focusing on cart retrieval rather than order retrieval or modifications.

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 needing the current shopping cart state, but does not explicitly provide when-not-to-use or alternative tool references. It gives clear context but no exclusions, so it is a 4.

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