sentinel_alert_lead_time

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It states the analysis involves lead time but omits details like whether it queries live data, requires authentication, or is read-only. With no annotations to rely on, the description is insufficient for safe invocation.

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, front-loading the purpose and use case with no redundancy. Every sentence adds value, but the structure is straightforward and could benefit from a brief output description.

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?

With no parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description should explain what the tool returns (e.g., a number, a list, a graph). It fails to do so, leaving the agent uncertain about the output format. The context is incomplete for effective use.

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?

The input schema has zero parameters, so schema description coverage is 100% by default. The description adds no parameter semantics but also doesn't need to, as there are no parameters. Baseline score of 4 applies.

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 analyzes 'how many days early Sentinel alerts fire before the confirmed incident,' specifying the resource (alert lead time) and action (analysis). However, it does not differentiate from sibling sentinel_* tools like sentinel_active_learning_queue or sentinel_attribute, which have distinct purposes.

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 includes 'Use to assess the practical early-warning value of the system,' providing a clear use case. However, it offers no guidance on when not to use this tool or mention alternatives among sibling tools, such as sentinel_outcomes or sentinel_calibration_drift.

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