youtube_analytics_video_detail

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses that daily metrics are returned and documents default date behavior, but it omits authorization requirements, error handling, and specifics about the metrics provided. This is adequate but shallow for a data-retrieval tool.

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 concise: one intro sentence, one return-value sentence, and a clearly formatted Args block. Every line adds value and the structure directly mirrors the parameter schema, making it easy to parse.

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?

There is no output schema, so the description must explain return values, but it only says 'daily metrics' and 'detailed analytics' without listing the actual metric fields (e.g., views, watch time, audience retention). It also fails to mention whether authentication is required, leaving important context gaps for an analytics 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 description coverage is 0%, and the description compensates well by documenting all three parameters: video_id is a YouTube video ID, start_date uses YYYY-MM-DD and defaults to 28 days ago, and end_date uses YYYY-MM-DD and defaults to today. This provides essential formatting and default context missing from the schema.

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's function: 'Get detailed analytics for a specific video over time' and even specifies the return format as 'daily metrics.' It distinguishes from sibling analytics tools by targeting a single video with a time range, though 'detailed analytics' is somewhat vague given the many analytics siblings.

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 implies usage for per-video time-series analytics via 'specific video over time,' but it does not explicitly explain when to choose this tool over alternatives like youtube_analytics_overview or youtube_analytics_retention. No exclusions or alternative recommendations are provided.

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