serp_google_places

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It only mentions that it 'returns structured place results,' but does not disclose pagination behavior, default country/language, credit implications, or any other operational characteristics. Minimal value beyond the function itself.

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 very concise, with the main action front-loaded in the first sentence. The second sentence is somewhat redundant with the first, but the overall length is appropriate and there is no fluff.

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?

Given the tool's complexity (5 params, required query, no annotations) and the existence of sibling tools like serp_google_maps, the description is incomplete. It lacks usage guidance and behavioral details, though the output schema presumably covers return values. The description alone does not provide enough context for an agent to choose this tool confidently.

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%, as all five parameters have descriptions in the input schema. The tool description itself adds no parameter-level detail beyond the schema, so the baseline of 3 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?

The description clearly states the verb ('Search') and resource ('local places and businesses'), and notes it returns structured place results. This distinguishes it from general web search or image search, though it does not explicitly compare to the similar serp_google_maps tool.

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 given on when to use this tool versus alternatives like serp_google_search or serp_google_maps. The description only states what it does, without context, prerequisites, or exclusions.

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