splunk_get_user

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full behavioral burden. It communicates that the tool returns details, roles, and permissions and the verb "get" implies a read-only operation, but it does not mention permission requirements, whether inherited roles are included, or any access constraints.

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 brief and front-loaded: the purpose is stated first, followed by the single argument. There is no wasted language and it is appropriately sized for a one-parameter read tool.

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?

With one required parameter and an output schema present, the definition is nearly complete for an agent to invoke the tool. The remaining gap is modest: it lacks explicit guidance on sibling selection and permission behavior, but the core invocation information is present.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It identifies the sole parameter as the username to inspect, which is minimally adequate, but it adds little beyond the schema property name and does not clarify format or case sensitivity.

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 states a specific verb and resource: get details, assigned roles, and permissions for a specific user. It clearly distinguishes itself from a list operation by saying "specific user," but it does not explicitly differentiate from nearby siblings such as splunk_investigate_user.

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?

Usage is implied by the read-oriented wording and the phrase "specific user," suggesting it is for inspecting one user rather than listing users. However, there is no explicit when-to-use guidance, no exclusions, and no named alternative such as splunk_investigate_user.

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