search_collegesSearch College Scorecard for higher education institutions by state and/or name. Returns admission rate, graduation rate, average net price, median earnings, median debt, and size.
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| name | No | Institution name (partial match) | |
| limit | No | Max results (default 25) | |
| state | No | Two-letter state code (e.g., MA) |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
Annotations already declare read-only and open-world (pagination). Description adds the specific return fields but does not clarify sorting, pagination behavior, or how to handle large result sets. Adequate but not enhanced beyond 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?
Two sentences with front-loaded action and data source. No redundant words. Each sentence adds essential information.
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?
With full schema coverage, read-only/open-world annotations, and no output schema, the description covers purpose and return fields well. Could mention pagination or default sort to be fully complete.
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 covers 100% of parameters with descriptions. Description adds no extra meaning beyond restating 'by state and/or name'. Baseline score applies.
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?
Clearly states it searches the College Scorecard database by state and/or name, and lists the specific data fields returned. Distinct from sibling tools which focus on other domains.
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?
Implies use for college searches by state/name but does not explicitly state when to use vs alternatives or exclude cases. No guidance on optional parameters or result handling.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.
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