compare_stocks
Side-by-side comparison of 2-5 symbols: quote, RSI/MACD/ADX, trend, 30d return, latest pattern.
Input Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| symbols | Yes | ||
| timeframe | No | daily |
Output Schema
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Side-by-side comparison of 2-5 symbols: quote, RSI/MACD/ADX, trend, 30d return, latest pattern.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| symbols | Yes | ||
| timeframe | No | daily |
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
No arguments | |||
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description carries the behavioral disclosure. It clearly tells what the tool computes (quote, indicators, trend, return, pattern) and the constraint of 2-5 symbols. This is substantial behavioral context, though it stops short of clarifying data source freshness or any implicit read-only nature. Still, it provides meaningful information beyond the tool name.
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 entire description is one concise sentence, front-loading the core purpose and then listing key features. No redundant or filler words exist. Every phrase 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?
The description covers the tool's purpose, input constraints, and key output metrics, which is sufficient for basic selection and invocation. The output schema likely details return structure, so it is not missing that. However, the timeframe parameter is left ambiguous, and there is no mention of edge cases (e.g., invalid symbol count), so it is not fully complete for a complex comparison tool.
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 has 0% description coverage. The description adds meaning to the 'symbols' parameter by specifying '2-5 symbols,' which gives a range and validates the expected input. However, the 'timeframe' parameter is not mentioned at all, leaving its allowed values and effect unexplained. Thus the description only partially compensates for the missing schema 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 begins with 'Side-by-side comparison of 2-5 symbols,' which is a specific verb and resource, and it lists concrete included metrics (quote, RSI/MACD/ADX, trend, 30d return, latest pattern). This clearly distinguishes it from sibling tools like get_stock_quote (single symbol) or get_technical_indicators (likely one symbol and not a comparison).
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 the use case: when you need to compare multiple symbols together. It states the symbol count limit (2-5), which helps an agent decide if this tool is appropriate. However, it does not explicitly mention alternatives or conditions when not to use it, leaving a slight gap.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
Add one secure layer between your agents and this server.