List My Rentals

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and destructiveHint, so the description does not need to restate safety. It adds behavioral value by clarifying that this is a summary list (specific fields) rather than full rental detail, and by noting the 'both tiers' scope. Pagination and ordering are not mentioned, but those are minor gaps for a simple list tool.

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 with no filler: purpose, optional filter, returned fields, and sibling pointer are all included efficiently. The core action is front-loaded, making it easy to scan.

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 list tool with one optional, fully documented parameter and safety annotations, the description is complete. It states what the tool returns, how to filter, and where to go for full detail. No critical information needed for correct invocation is missing.

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%; the schema already defines status as an optional filter with allowed values and a default of 'active'. The description only restates 'optionally filtered by status' without adding new meaning, so the baseline score of 3 is appropriate.

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 and resource ('List your rentals'), states scope ('across both tiers'), and enumerates the returned fields. It also explicitly contrasts itself with get_rental ('Use get_rental for full detail on one'), making the tool's purpose unambiguous and distinguishable from its closest 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?

The description names the key alternative, get_rental, and tells the agent to use that tool when full detail is needed. It also mentions the optional status filter. It does not enumerate exclusions for other sibling list tools like list_orders, but the main routing decision is covered.

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