Retrieve all expense entries within a specified date range. Filter expenses by start and end dates to view records for any period.
List expense entries within an inclusive date range.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| start_date | Yes | ||
| end_date | Yes |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v0.1.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the full behavioral burden. It clearly identifies a read operation and the inclusive date-range boundary, but does not mention pagination, ordering, or the returned fields. This is adequate but not rich.
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?
A single sentence front-loads the verb, resource, and main constraint. There is no filler or redundant restating of the tool name.
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?
For a simple two-parameter list tool, the description covers the core action and range semantics. However, the lack of an output schema and absence of return-shape or date-format guidance leaves some ambiguity for an agent invoking the 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?
Schema description coverage is 0%, so the description must compensate. It adds the key semantic that the range is inclusive, but it does not specify the expected date format or confirm how each parameter maps beyond their names.
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 uses a specific verb ('List') and resource ('expense entries'), and adds a clear scope (inclusive date range). This distinguishes it from siblings 'add_expense' (create) and 'summarize' (aggregate).
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 intended use is implied by the name and siblings, but there is no explicit statement about when to choose this over 'summarize' or how it relates to 'add_expense'. No exclusions or alternative routing are provided.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.