get_alerts

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

No annotations are present, so the description bears the full behavioral burden. It simply says 'Get weather alerts' without disclosing response format, error behavior, updates, or any side effects. The output schema supplies structure, but important behavioral context is missing.

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 condensed and efficient: a one-line purpose followed by a focused parameter explanation. There is no filler, and the core intent is front-loaded through a concise, well-structured format.

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 read tool, the description handles the essential invocation details—the state parameter—and the output schema covers the return shape. The only gap is the lack of a guide on when to choose get_alerts rather than get_forecast, but the tool name and purpose make the distinction reasonably clear.

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 schema itself has no parameter descriptions, but the Args block in the tool description adds meaning by specifying 'Two-letter US state code (e.g. CA, NY)'. This gives the agent the necessary format and examples for the single parameter, though it does not cover edge cases or additional constraints.

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 opening sentence 'Get weather alerts for a US state' clearly identifies the verb and resource. It is a specific and unambiguous statement, but it does not explicitly differentiate from the sibling tool get_forecast, leaving that distinction to the tool names.

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?

Usage context is implied: call this tool when weather alerts for a US state are needed. However, the description provides no explicit guidance on when to prefer get_alerts over get_forecast, nor does it mention any exclusion scenarios or alternatives.

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