calculate_scss

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

With no annotations, the description must fully convey behavioral traits. It discloses that the tool calculates quarterly interest income and principal at maturity. However, it does not mention any constraints, assumptions, or side effects (e.g., minimum principal, tax implications). The description is adequate but not detailed.

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 at two sentences, front-loading the purpose and usage. Every word adds value with no unnecessary information.

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 tool's simplicity and existence of an output schema, the description does not need to detail returns. However, with three parameters and no schema descriptions, the description should provide more context about parameter meaning and defaults. It only partially covers the required parameter.

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 0% description coverage, so the description must compensate. It only mentions 'principal' implicitly through context ('quarterly interest income and the principal returned'). It does not explain the 'years' or 'annual_rate' parameters, nor that default values are provided. This is insufficient for guiding proper parameter filling.

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 identifies the tool as calculating SCSS (Senior Citizens Savings Scheme) quarterly interest and principal at maturity. It distinguishes itself from other financial calculators by focusing on this specific government scheme, making its purpose clear and unique among siblings.

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 explicit usage context: 'Use for retiree regular-income planning.' Although it does not mention when not to use or list alternatives, the context is clear enough for an agent to decide when to invoke this tool.

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