search_by_date_range

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It only states the basic functionality without disclosing behavioral traits such as pagination, read-only nature, rate limits, or return value details. The presence of a pageSize parameter implies pagination but is not explained in the description.

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 a single, concise sentence that front-loads the key verb and resource. No extraneous information is present.

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 has 6 parameters and no output schema, the description is too brief. It does not explain how date ranges interact (e.g., inclusive/exclusive), how the condition filter integrates, or what the default behavior is. The description leaves significant gaps about usage expectations.

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 100%, so the schema already documents all parameters. The description adds minimal value beyond restating the date range focus. It does not provide additional semantic context like date inclusivity or combination logic with the optional condition filter.

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 searches for clinical trials by date range, using a specific verb ('Search') and resource ('clinical trials'). It effectively differentiates from sibling tools that focus on other criteria like condition, location, or study type.

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?

While the description clarifies that the tool filters by start or completion date, it does not provide explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus siblings, nor does it mention any prerequisites or alternatives. The context is clear but lacks direct comparative advice.

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