get_family

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must convey behavioral traits. It states that the response 'includes linked members', which adds some context beyond the schema. But it lacks details about authentication requirements, error behavior (e.g., if family_id not found), or any side effects. For a read-only tool, the bar is lower, but more transparency would be beneficial.

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 extremely concise, consisting of two short sentences. The key information is front-loaded, and there is no extraneous text. Every word contributes to understanding the tool's purpose.

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?

The tool has an output schema (not shown) and a single parameter. The description covers the core behavior (fetch by ID, include members). However, it does not mention what happens if the family is not found, or any related error conditions. Given the presence of an output schema, the description could be slightly more detailed.

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 one parameter 'family_id' with 0% description coverage (no description in the schema). The tool description does not explain what this ID represents, how to obtain it, or any constraints (e.g., must be positive integer). The meaning is implied by the context but could be clearer.

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 uses the verb 'Fetch' and specifies the resource 'family account by id'. It also mentions that the result includes linked members, which distinguishes it from the sibling tool 'list_families' that returns a list.

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 a concrete use-case example ('show family 555's profile - which members are linked?') that clarifies when to use the tool. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or provide alternatives, such as using 'list_families' for browsing.

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