get_consensus_portfolio

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

No annotations are provided, so description carries the full burden. It clearly states the tool is for research only, returns historical positions without inference of intent. It also specifies the output includes top-N securities with weight percentages.

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: two sentences plus an args/returns block. It front-loads the key caveat 'Research data only'. Every sentence adds value, though the returns example could be slightly more terse.

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 there is no output schema and only one parameter, the description adequately explains the tool: what it returns (securities, ticker, weight), the quarter format, and the top-N nature. The research caveat adds needed context. Not perfect, but sufficient for this complexity.

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 has 0% coverage but only one parameter quarter, and the description includes an example format 'q4y2025'. This adds semantic meaning beyond the schema's type: string. The return value example also clarifies the format.

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 specific verb+resource: 'Return the top-N consensus portfolio - securities held by the most institutional managers'. It clearly distinguishes from siblings by stating 'Research data only' and listing sibling tools like get_manager_holdings which focus on individual managers.

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 includes a clear disclaimer: 'Research data only. Returns disclosed institutional positions; do not infer manager intent or future direction.' This guides the agent on limitations. However, it does not explicitly state when to use this vs alternatives, though the sibling context implies use for broad consensus.

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