Get Basecamp Todo Set

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

Annotations already indicate readOnlyHint, destructiveHint, idempotentHint, and openWorldHint. The description adds that it 'returns todo lists and groups', which provides some behavioral context beyond annotations, but lacks details on pagination, errors, or the structure of the returned data.

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 very short (one sentence) and front-loaded with the key action and resource. It achieves conciseness, but it could be slightly more structured to include usage context or parameter clarification.

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 is simple (1 param, read-only) with rich annotations, but the description does not fully compensate for the lack of an output schema. It hints at the return value ('todo lists and groups') but does not describe the exact format or grouping, leaving some ambiguity.

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, but the schema description ('Basecamp resource identifier') is vague and does not explain how to obtain the todoset_id. The tool description does not supplement parameter meaning, forcing the agent to rely on external knowledge.

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 the action ('Get') and resource ('todo set container for a project'), and mentions what it returns ('todo lists and groups'). While it doesn't explicitly differentiate from siblings like basecamp_list_todos, the purpose is specific and understandable.

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?

No guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., basecamp_list_todos). There is no mention of prerequisites, context, or when it should not be used, leaving the agent without decision support.

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