get_quotes

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

Beyond the readOnlyHint and openWorldHint annotations, the description discloses important behavioral details: batch limit of 100 tickers, return fields (price, change, change_pct), and how unresolved tickers are handled without failing the batch. This adds significant context.

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 three sentences, each earning its place: purpose, behavior/limit, and use cases. It is front-loaded with the main purpose and contains no redundant or filler text.

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 single-parameter tool with an output schema, the description is complete: it explains what is returned, error behavior, limits, and typical use cases. No significant information is missing for a quote snapshot 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 already thoroughly describes the tickers parameter (array, max 100, example). The description repeats the 100-ticker limit but adds no new parameter-specific semantics. With 100% schema coverage, the baseline of 3 applies.

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 a specific verb+resource: 'Live price snapshot for one or more tickers (Alpha Vantage).' It distinguishes from siblings like get_history (historical) and get_fundamentals by emphasizing 'current price' and 'right now.'

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?

Explicit use cases are provided: "Use for 'what's X trading at right now?' or to seed a quick position-level P&L calc." However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use it, though 'live' implies not for historical data.

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