get_transactions_by_month

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It discloses that pending transactions are excluded and explains the exclude_fields behavior in detail. However, it does not mention any side effects, permissions, or limits.

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 sentence for purpose, then a bulleted Args section. No redundant information, well front-loaded.

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?

The tool has an output schema, so return values need not be explained. The description covers key aspects (month, plan, filters, field exclusion). It could mention pagination but is adequate for the tool's 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?

Input schema has 0% description coverage, so description fully compensates. All 5 parameters are explained with format, usage, or options (e.g., month format, type filter values, exclude_fields logic).

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 'Get all transactions for a specific plan month, excluding pending transactions', which is a specific verb+resource+scope. It distinguishes from sibling tools like list_transactions by focusing on a month filter.

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 provides context on how to use parameters (e.g., 'use list_plans to find available IDs' for plan_id, format for month). However, it does not explicitly state when to use this tool versus alternatives like get_transactions_by_account or search_transactions.

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