Read periodic note

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

Annotations declare readOnlyHint=true, and description does not contradict. However, the description does not disclose what the tool returns (e.g., full note content, metadata). Beyond the read-only nature, there is no additional behavioral context like output format or error handling. With no output schema, this is a gap.

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 a single sentence of 12 words, front-loading the action and resource. No superfluous information; 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?

For a simple read tool with annotations, the description adequately covers purpose and parameters. However, it lacks details on return value, which is important since there is no output schema. It could also mention that it works with daily, weekly, monthly notes and that the date should be within that period. Overall, functional but not fully complete.

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 coverage is 100% with two well-described parameters. The description adds value by clarifying that the date defaults to 'today' and that the period can be daily, weekly, or monthly. This goes beyond the schema's enum description.

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 uses a specific verb 'read' and resource 'periodic note', and distinguishes from siblings like 'read_note' by specifying 'daily, weekly or monthly note'. This makes the purpose clear and unique.

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 implicitly indicates usage for periodic notes, but does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus sibling tools like 'read_note' or 'append_to_periodic_note'. The context is clear, but lacks explicit alternatives.

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