get_castable_columns

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

No annotations are present, so the description carries full responsibility. It correctly implies a read-only operation, but does not disclose authentication requirements, rate limits, or any side effects. For a simple retrieval tool, this is minimally adequate but lacks depth.

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 a single, well-structured sentence that conveys the core purpose without any unnecessary words or repetition. It is optimally concise and front-loaded with the most critical 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 that an output schema exists and the tool is simple, the description adequately states what the tool returns (column metadata with specific attributes). It could mention pagination via the limit parameter, but the schema already handles that. Overall, it is fairly complete for a metadata retrieval 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 input schema has 100% description coverage for all 4 parameters, so the baseline is 3. The description adds no additional meaning or context to the parameters beyond what the schema already provides (e.g., server_id, caslib_name, table_name, limit).

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 specific verb ('Get') and resource ('column metadata for a CAS table'), explicitly listing the metadata types (names, types, labels, formats). This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_castable_data (which retrieves rows) and get_castable_info (table-level info).

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 no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives such as get_castable_data or list_castables. It does not mention any prerequisites, context, or exclusions, leaving the agent to infer usage solely from the tool's purpose.

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