get_alert

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It only states 'Get alert instance by id,' implying a read-only operation but fails to disclose potential side effects, response format, required permissions, or rate limits. For a simple get-by-id, more context like 'returns the full alert object' would be helpful.

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, front-loaded sentence with no unnecessary words. Every word is essential, achieving high conciseness.

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 (one parameter, no output schema, no annotations), the description is adequate but not comprehensive. It lacks detail on the return value and does not clarify if 'alert instance' differs from alerts in sibling tools. Could be improved with a brief note on response structure.

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?

Schema coverage is 100% with a single parameter 'id' described as 'Path parameter: id'. The description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, which is already clear. Baseline 3 is appropriate as the schema does the heavy lifting.

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 'Get alert instance by id' clearly specifies the verb (get), resource (alert instance), and identifier (by id). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like 'update_alert' (write) and 'list_profile_alerts' (list) through the inherent meaning of 'get' versus those verbs.

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 is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives. The description does not mention when not to use it, nor does it reference sibling tools like 'list_profile_alerts' for retrieving multiple alerts or 'update_alert' for modifications. Usage is only implicitly suggested by the purpose.

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