get_spending_summary

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It outlines the analysis dimensions but fails to mention how date range parameters affect the output, whether the operation is read-only, or what the returned data structure looks like. No side effects or caveats are disclosed.

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 that is front-loaded with the core purpose and key breakdown dimensions. It contains zero fluff and states the primary function efficiently.

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 and output schema, the description must be more comprehensive. It covers the output axes but omits parameter semantics, usage context, and behavioral details, leaving the agent with insufficient information to confidently invoke the 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?

The input schema has two string parameters (start_date, end_date) both lacking descriptions, and schema description coverage is 0%. The description does not mention either parameter or clarify how the date range influences the summary, providing no additional meaning beyond the bare parameter names.

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 provides a multi-axis spending analysis broken down by category, category group, and merchant, along with overall income/expense/savings. This specific scope distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_spending_by_category and get_complete_financial_overview.

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 about when to use this tool versus alternatives. It doesn't mention a preferred use case, nor does it contrast with related tools such as get_spending_by_category or get_budget_summary, leaving the agent to infer applicability.

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