get_alerts

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

No annotations are provided, and the description does not disclose behavioral traits such as rate limits, data sources, or that it is a read-only operation. The minimal description leaves the agent to infer behavior from the tool name alone.

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 short, but it includes a clear 'Args' section. While the parameter details are repeated from the schema, the added examples make it useful. A little more conciseness could be achieved by dropping the 'Args' section if unnecessary, but it's acceptable.

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 has an output schema (unspecified) and only one parameter, the description is somewhat minimal. It adequately covers the input but does not explain the output format or how alerts differ from forecasts. More context would improve completeness.

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 input schema has no description for the 'state' parameter, but the description adds valuable meaning: it specifies a two-letter US state code with examples (CA, NY). This compensates for the 0% schema description coverage.

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 tool gets weather alerts for a US state, which is a specific verb-resource combination. It distinguishes itself from the sibling tool 'get_forecast' by focusing on alerts rather than forecasts.

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 is for US state alerts but does not provide explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'get_forecast'. No when-not-to-use or prerequisite information is given.

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