calculate_us_student_loan

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavior. It only notes 'Returns: {loan_balance}' and implies a read-only calculation, but fails to mention output structure, side effects, authentication needs, or rate limits. The description lacks detail beyond what the input schema already conveys.

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 with no unnecessary words. It front-loads the primary purpose and includes a brief pointer to related calculators. Every word serves a purpose.

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 an output schema exists but is not detailed in the description, the description fails to explain the full output (e.g., monthly payment, total interest). It also omits usage conditions for the income_driven plan (e.g., income requirement). The tool has 4 parameters and a calculation function, but the description leaves key context ambiguous.

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 baseline is 3. The description adds context about plan types and the return value, but does not enhance parameter semantics beyond the schema. No new details about parameter dependencies or formats are provided.

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 US student loan repayment and specifies three plan types (standard, graduated, income-driven). It uses a specific verb ('calculate') and resource ('US student loan'), effectively distinguishing it from the many other calculate_* tools in the sibling list.

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 no explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It mentions 'See list_bundles for related finance-us calculators' but does not differentiate from other loan calculators (e.g., calculate_loan_payment, calculate_student_loan_repayment) or specify prerequisites or conditions for plan selection.

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