Canadian Climate Station Search

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, idempotentHint, and destructiveHint, so the safety profile is covered. The description adds valuable context: it specifies the data source (api.weather.gc.ca, MSC GeoMet OGC API - Features) and explicitly states 'no auth required', which is beyond the annotations. It also discloses the returned fields (CLIMATE_IDENTIFIER, coordinates, elevation, record date ranges), though these are partly in the output schema. No contradictions.

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 waste. It front-loads the action and filter options, then lists the key output and data source. Every sentence earns its place; it is concise and structured effectively.

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 search tool with no required parameters and an output schema present, the description is complete. It covers purpose, filters, output highlights, and data source. The presence of an output schema means return details are documented elsewhere, so the description does not need to elaborate further. Nothing an agent needs to call this correctly 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%, so all three parameters (bbox, limit, province) have detailed descriptions. The description does not add meaning beyond the schema, though it reiterates the province/bbox filters. Since the schema already explains each parameter fully, the description adds minimal additional semantics. Baseline 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 clearly states the action (Search) and the resource (Environment and Climate Change Canada climate station catalog), and specifies the filters (province/territory or bounding box). It also highlights the key output (CLIMATE_IDENTIFIER) and its downstream use (needed for msc-geomet.climate_daily), distinguishing it from other tools. This is specific and actionable.

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 indicates when to use the tool (to search for stations by province or bounding box) and implicitly when it fits the workflow (before retrieving daily data via msc-geomet.climate_daily). It does not explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions, but the context is clear enough. A slight deduction for not naming alternative station search tools like meteostat.stations.nearby.

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