List series in a category

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, so the description does not need to repeat safety details. It adds context about category scoping and filters, but does not disclose behavioral aspects like pagination defaults (limit=1000, offset=0) or how filter_variable/filter_value work. It does not contradict annotations.

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 one concise sentence followed by a concrete example. It is front-loaded, uses no unnecessary words, and clearly demonstrates a typical invocation.

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?

The tool has 11 parameters and an output schema, but the description offers minimal context. It does not explain filtering mechanics, ordering, pagination, or tag behavior, leaving an AI agent uncertain about how to set parameters correctly. While output schema exists, the description is under-specified for this complexity level.

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 0%, so the description must compensate for parameter meaning. It only provides an example with category_id and limit, and generically references 'optional filters' without explaining which parameters are filters or how they interact. This is insufficient for 11 parameters.

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's function with a specific verb ('List') and resource ('FRED series belonging to a category'). It distinguishes from sibling tools like get_category_children (which lists child categories) and get_category_tags (which lists tags).

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 implies its use case (list series in a given category) but does not provide explicit alternatives or exclusions. It says 'with optional filters' but does not contrast with search_series or other list tools. No clear when-not-to-use guidance is provided.

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