get_gist

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It goes beyond a simple 'get' by enumerating the returned fields (full file content, description, public flag, owner, URLs, history) and disclosing the truncation behavior for very large files. It also provides a docs link. Missing error cases or auth requirements, but this is strong for a read-only operation.

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?

Three sentences that are front-loaded with the core purpose, followed by essential return details and an edge case. No redundant filler; every sentence adds value.

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 one-parameter tool with no output schema, the description is complete. It tells the agent exactly what the response contains and handles the large-file truncation nuance. It also differentiates from sibling gist tools and includes a reference link for further details.

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 coverage is 100% (gist_id is described as 'The unique identifier of the gist'). The description only reinforces 'by its id' without adding new meaning to the parameter, so it meets the baseline for full schema coverage.

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 opens with 'Get a single gist by its id,' clearly stating the specific action and resource. It distinguishes itself from siblings like list_gists, create_gist, and delete_gist by emphasizing 'single' and 'by its id.'

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 phrase 'single gist by its id' gives clear context for when to use this tool (when you need one specific gist). However, it does not explicitly name alternatives or state when not to use it, so it stops short of full exclusion guidance.

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