Get a bulk data entry

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

With no annotations, the description fully handles behavioral disclosure. It clearly states the tool fetches metadata and returns a download URI, and explicitly says it does not download the file—a critical behavioral trait. No additional details on rate limits or auth are provided, but the core behavior is transparent.

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, front-loaded with the primary action. Each sentence serves a distinct purpose: first defines the what, second defines a key limitation. 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 metadata-fetching tool with no output schema, the description covers the essential behavior and caveat. It explains what is returned (metadata + URI) and what is not done (download). Minor omission: doesn't detail which metadata fields are included beyond the URI, but this is acceptable given tool simplicity.

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 both parameters (id and type). The description adds minimal value beyond the schema by mapping them to the two fetch methods. Baseline 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 specifies verb 'Fetch', resource 'bulk data file', and two identification methods (type or ID). It distinguishes from sibling 'list_bulk_data' by focusing on a single entry. The action and scope are unambiguous.

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 returns (metadata + download URI) and explicitly warns it does not download the file itself. However, it lacks explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance compared to siblings, leaving the agent to infer usage context.

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