search_by_eligibility_criteria

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

With no annotations, the description must convey behavioral traits. It only says 'Advanced search' without disclosing whether the tool is read-only, what it returns, or any side effects. Safety, rate limits, or destructive potential are unaddressed. This leaves agents guessing about the tool's behavior.

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 phrase, which is under-specified rather than concise. While it is short, it lacks informative content. A concise description would efficiently convey key details in a few sentences; this description omits critical 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?

Given 8 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is completely inadequate. It does not explain what 'advanced search' entails, how results are returned, or any context about eligibility criteria searching. The agent receives no meaningful completion of the tool's function.

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 input schema provides 100% coverage of parameter descriptions, so the baseline is 3. The description adds no additional meaning beyond the schema, such as relationships between parameters or formatting hints. It does not enhance understanding of how to use the parameters effectively.

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 states 'Advanced search based on detailed eligibility criteria,' which identifies the verb (search) and resource (eligibility criteria). However, it remains vague and does not distinguish from sibling tools like search_by_condition or search_studies, which also involve eligibility criteria. A more specific statement about what makes this 'advanced' would improve clarity.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus the many sibling search tools. For instance, it does not mention prerequisites, limitations, or scenarios where search_by_condition would be more appropriate. The agent has no basis to choose this over alternatives.

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