get_snapshot

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 the tool returns an archive URL and explains the optional timestamp behavior, but it does not disclose potential errors (e.g., if the URL or snapshot does not exist), rate limits, or authentication requirements. For a simple tool, this is minimally adequate but could be more transparent.

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: two sentences, no wasted words. The first sentence states the purpose, and the second provides a key usage guideline. It is front-loaded and efficient, earning a top score.

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?

For a simple tool with two parameters and no output schema, the description is adequate but not complete. It does not describe the return format or potential errors (e.g., if the snapshot is not found). Given the lack of output schema, more detail about the response would improve completeness.

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 schema has 100% coverage, providing descriptions for both parameters. The description adds value by explaining that omitting the timestamp returns the latest capture, which is additional semantics beyond the schema's format-only description. This helps the agent understand the parameter's behavior better.

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 tool gets the archive URL for a snapshot of a page, with the verb 'Get' and the resource 'archive URL'. It also specifies the optional timestamp behavior, making the purpose unambiguous and distinct from sibling tools like 'list_versions' which likely list versions rather than retrieve a specific snapshot URL.

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 clear usage hint: 'Omit timestamp for the latest capture,' which guides the agent on when to omit the optional parameter. However, it lacks explicit when-not-to-use guidance or comparison to sibling tools like 'extract_text' or 'get_screenshot', though the purpose alone makes the context understandable.

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