get_usage

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden. It clearly explains the output (scans, AI analyses, quota, limits) and the verb 'Get' implies a read-only operation. However, it does not explicitly state that no side effects occur, and it omits any auth requirements or rate limits. Still, it is sufficiently transparent for a simple statistics 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 a single sentence that front-loads the purpose and immediately details the return values. Every word is informative, and there is no redundancy or filler. It is as concise as possible while being complete.

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 no parameters, no output schema, and sibling tools that perform distinctly different actions (scanning, comparing, auditing), this description fully covers what the tool does. It tells the agent exactly what information it will receive, which is sufficient for selection and invocation.

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 zero parameters, so the baseline is 4 per evaluation rules. The description does not need to add parameter documentation as there are none. It correctly omits any parameter-related text.

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 the specific verb 'Get' and clearly names the resource 'API usage statistics'. It lists the exact data returned (scans, AI analyses, remaining quota, plan limits), which distinguishes this tool from siblings like bulk_scan, scan_site, etc., that perform different operations.

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 states what the tool does but provides no guidance on when to use it versus alternatives. No mention of when it is appropriate to call this tool (e.g., before scanning to check limits) or when not to use it. The context is implied but not explicit.

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