getCategoryById

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. Mentions that amounts are scoped to current plan month (UTC), which is important behavior. Does not explicitly state read-only nature or discuss side effects, authorization, or rate limits, but for a read operation the description is adequate but not exhaustive.

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?

Two sentences with no fluff: first states core purpose, second adds critical temporal context. Every word contributes value.

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 the simplicity of the tool (single read, 2 required params, no output schema), the description covers key behavior (month-scoped amounts). Could be slightly improved by noting it's a safe GET, but overall complete.

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 coverage is 100%, both parameters have clear descriptions including special values for plan_id. The tool description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, so baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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?

Description clearly states verb 'Returns' and resource 'a single category', distinguishing it from siblings like getCategories (plural) and getMonthCategoryById (month-specific). Adds specificity about amounts being for current plan month.

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?

Usage is implied by purpose, but no explicit guidance on when to use vs alternatives like getMonthCategoryById or getCategories. No exclusion criteria or when-not-to-use stated.

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