get_county_lending

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

With no annotations, description carries full burden. It discloses the default behavior (latest quarter if no period filters) and required period format. It notes the public domain source, but doesn't discuss error handling or rate limits, which are not critical for this data retrieval.

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?

Three sentences, front-loaded with the core purpose and metrics, then usage, then parameter details. No fluff, every sentence provides value.

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 output schema exists, description doesn't need to explain return values. It covers purpose, default behavior, time series usage, parameter formats, and data source. Comprehensive for a data 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?

Description explains fips format with example, from_period/to_period format, and industry NAICS filter. It omits the year and quarter parameters present in the schema, meaning some parameters are not described, but key ones are covered with concrete examples.

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?

Description clearly states it returns quarterly SBA 7(a) loan aggregates for a single US county, listing specific metrics. This distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_state_lending or get_county_employment by its scope and data type.

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?

Provides usage context: without period filters returns latest observation, and instructs to supply both from_period and to_period for series. However, it doesn't explicitly contrast with alternative lending tools or exclude other parameters.

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