get_discussion

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

Annotations are absent, so the description must carry the behavioral disclosure burden. 'Get' implies a read operation, but the description does not state the return shape, whether associated entries are included, or what permission or error behavior applies.

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?

One short, direct sentence with no filler. It is efficiently communicative, though a short clause about scope or return value could make it slightly more useful.

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?

This is a low-complexity 2-parameter tool, and the schema supplies the required inputs. However, without an output schema or behavioral detail, the description leaves gaps about what the result contains, especially given the availability of list_discussion_entries as a related tool.

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 schema covers both parameters with basic descriptions at 100% coverage, and the description adds no extra semantic detail about ID formats or how course_id and topic_id relate. Baseline 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?

The description uses a concrete verb ('Get') and names the resource ('specific discussion topic'). The singular phrasing distinguishes it from list_discussions and create_discussion, though it could more explicitly clarify what a 'discussion topic' includes.

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?

No guidance is provided about when to use this tool versus alternatives such as list_discussions or list_discussion_entries. An agent must infer the correct usage from the tool name alone.

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