search_by_funder

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

No annotations provided; description covers parameters and return type but lacks details on constraints, rate limits, or side effects. For a read operation, it's minimally adequate.

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?

Structured with sections for Parameters and Returns, but the parameter list is verbose. Could be shortened without losing clarity.

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?

Output schema exists, so returns are sufficiently described as list of dicts. Input parameters are well-documented, making the tool usable for its intended purpose.

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?

Description adds examples for funder ('NSF', 'European Commission', 'NIH') and clarifies query as optional, going beyond the schema. Despite 0% schema coverage signal, it compensates well.

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?

Description clearly states 'Search for records funded by a specific organization' and distinguishes from siblings like search_by_community or search_by_license by focusing on the funder parameter.

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 explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus other search tools. It's implied for funder-specific queries, but no exclusions or alternatives mentioned.

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