get_absences

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It describes the return fields (dates, times, reasons, excuse status, notes), which is useful, but doesn't disclose behavior like whether it requires authentication, whether it returns empty vs error for no records, or pagination. No readOnly hint either.

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?

Well-structured: purpose first, then what records contain, then parameter explanations. Concise and front-loaded. The Args block is slightly redundant with the schema but adds format details.

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?

Output schema exists, so return values needn't be explained. The description covers the purpose and parameters adequately, but with zero annotations and no explicit usage context, it leaves some gaps for an agent deciding when and how to call this.

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 description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate by explaining start_date and end_date. It does add the YYYY-MM-DD format and default values (school year start/end), which is valuable. However, with 0% schema coverage, the description could do more to clarify parameter behavior.

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?

States a specific verb (Fetch) and resource (registered absences for the student), and elaborates on the record contents. It distinguishes itself reasonably from siblings like get_timetable or get_homework, though it doesn't explicitly contrast with any sibling.

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. It's a straightforward data-fetch tool, but the description doesn't say when absences data is relevant or whether it's scoped to a particular student or all students.

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