travel_get_quote

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the transparency burden. It discloses that the tool returns the total amount in currency, which is useful, but it does not mention whether the quote is binding, expires, or has any side effects. For a quote tool, the absence of side effects is implied but not explicitly stated.

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 two sentences long, front-loaded with the main purpose, and every sentence adds value: the first states what it does, the second explains the workflow. No wasted words.

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?

For a simple 4-parameter tool with no output schema, the description explains the return value and usage context. It covers the essential information an agent needs: what to pass, what to expect, and the surrounding workflow. It does not detail edge cases, but the tool's simplicity makes this acceptable.

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 100% description coverage for all four parameters, so the schema already explains each field. The description adds limited additional meaning by tying hotelId to travel_search_hotels and mentioning date range, but this is largely redundant with the schema's parameter descriptions.

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 a price quote for a specific hotel and date range' with a specific verb and resource. It also mentions the return value (total amount) and differentiates from siblings like travel_search_hotels, travel_book_hotel, and travel_get_booking_status by focusing on the quote step.

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 workflow context: 'Use the hotelId from travel_search_hotels' and 'Present the quote to the user before proceeding to travel_book_hotel.' This implies when to use it in the booking sequence, but it does not explicitly state when not to use it or mention alternative tools beyond the workflow reference.

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