get_notifications

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

No annotations are present, so the description carries the full burden. It only states the return type (list) but does not disclose behavior like pagination, authentication requirements, rate limits, or what happens with minId/maxId filtering. The description adds minimal behavioral context.

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 with no wasted words. It is front-loaded and to the point.

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 5 parameters and no output schema or annotations, the description is insufficient. It does not explain the return format, pagination behavior, or how the parameters interact (e.g., minId/maxId vs. count). The tool has siblings with similar names, but the description does not help an agent understand when to use this specific tool.

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 descriptions for all 5 parameters, meeting the baseline. However, the tool description adds no extra meaning beyond the schema. The parameter descriptions in the schema are adequate but basic, and no further context is provided.

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 'Returns list of notifications' is too vague. It does not specify the scope (e.g., current user, organization), which is only hinted by the organization parameter. Among siblings like count_notifications and get_user_recent_updates, the purpose is not clearly distinguished.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as count_notifications, mark_notification_as_read, or get_user_recent_updates. The description lacks context about typical use cases or exclusions.

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