calculate_flight_distance

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

The description indicates it uses great-circle distance (Haversine formula) but does not disclose units or whether it's spherical vs ellipsoidal. Annotations are absent, so the description carries the burden, but the tool is straightforward with minimal behavioral nuance.

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 two sentences: one for purpose and one for related tools. Every word earns its place with no redundancy.

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 and full schema documentation, the description is adequate. It covers the core function and hints at alternatives. Output schema likely covers return values, so no missing critical context.

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 100%, so the input schema already explains each parameter (lat/lon for departure/arrival). The description adds no additional semantic value beyond what the schema provides.

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 calculates great-circle distance between two coordinates, using a specific verb and resource. It also distinguishes itself by referencing list_bundles for related voyage calculators.

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 mentions list_bundles for voyage calculators but does not explicitly differentiate this tool from other sibling distance calculators like calculate_distance_2d or calculate_distance_3d. Usage guidance is implied but not comprehensive.

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