get_account_snapshots

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It does not disclose return format, whether it includes all accounts, pagination, or any side effects. The description essentially rephrases the tool name without adding meaningful behavioral context, leaving the agent uncertain about what the call will return or if it is safe.

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, front-loaded sentence with no unnecessary words. It efficiently states the core purpose without redundancy, making it easy to parse and remember.

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 lack of annotations, no output schema, and zero parameter descriptions, the description provides insufficient context for correct invocation. The agent does not know the expected response structure, date format, or any constraints. While the purpose is clear, the operational details needed to use the tool reliably are missing.

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 only implies that start_date and end_date define a date range, but provides no format (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD), inclusivity semantics, or any detail about the two parameters. The agent cannot confidently construct valid input without additional information.

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 a specific action ('Get'), resource ('account balance snapshots'), and scope ('for a date range'). This distinguishes it from siblings like get_account_balance (which likely returns current balance) and get_net_worth, making the purpose unambiguous.

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 phrase 'for a date range' clearly implies this tool is for retrieving historical snapshots over a specified period, providing context on when to use it. However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions like 'for current balance use get_account_balance', so it falls short of full guidance.

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