get-latest-forum-topics

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

There are no annotations, so the description carries the full burden. While the description implies a read-only listing, it does not disclose specifics like ordering by date, whether it returns full topic content or summaries, or any rate limits or authentication requirements. The behavior is under-specified beyond the basic purpose.

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 a single, clear sentence with no redundant or filler content. It efficiently conveys the core function and the optional filter in a minimal footprint.

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 listing tool with fully documented parameters, the description covers the essential purpose. However, without annotations or an output schema, it lacks usage context, ordering semantics, and a clear distinction from sibling search tools, making it minimally sufficient but not comprehensive.

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%, so each parameter is already described. The description adds 'optionally filtered by category' which aligns with category_id and category_slug, but does not provide additional meaning beyond the schema's per-parameter descriptions.

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 verb 'Get' and the resource 'latest topics from the VEX Forum', with an optional category filter. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like search-forum by specifying 'latest topics', implying a feed rather than a search, but it does not explicitly compare to alternatives.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus search-forum, get-forum-topic, or list-forum-categories. The description simply states what it does without indicating appropriate contexts or exclusions.

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