consult_advisor

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of disclosing behavior. It adds a key behavioral detail: 'The current session transcript is attached automatically,' which clarifies input handling. However, it does not disclose the output format, potential side effects, or any restrictions, leaving the safety profile somewhat opaque.

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 concise and front-loaded, with the core purpose in the first sentence. The subsequent usage guidance adds valuable, non-redundant detail without wasting words.

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, has an output schema to cover return values, and the description provides purpose, usage triggers, and a key behavioral trait. It is slightly incomplete due to the undocumented 'context_hint' parameter, but overall it is sufficiently complete for effective use.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It explains the 'question' parameter well ('put the specific decision to evaluate in question'), but the optional 'context_hint' parameter is not mentioned at all, leaving a gap for the second parameter.

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's purpose: 'Consult the configured advisor model for strategic guidance.' It uses a specific verb and resource, and distinguishes itself from the sibling 'advisor_config' by focusing on querying the advisor rather than configuring it.

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 explicitly lists when to call the tool: at decision points, after repeated errors, or before declaring a complex task complete. It provides clear context but does not mention when not to use it or name alternative tools, so it stops short of a full 5.

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