trim

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

The description mentions the default behavior (whitespace) but does not disclose additional behavioral traits. It also references 'specified characters' without indicating how they are provided, which is inconsistent with the empty input schema, reducing transparency.

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 sentence, immediately front-loaded with the core action, and contains no unnecessary words.

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?

The tool is simple, but the description fails to reconcile the mismatch between the mention of 'specified characters' and the empty parameter list. It also does not mention return values or side effects, which is important when no output schema is provided.

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 description suggests the tool accepts specified characters for trimming, but the input schema declares zero parameters. This is misleading and provides no information on how to pass custom characters, leaving the agent without a valid invocation method.

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 trims leading and trailing whitespace by default, with the option to trim specified characters. It distinguishes from siblings like trimstart and trimend by specifying both ends are trimmed.

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 alternatives such as trimstart, trimend, or clean_whitespace. It simply states the function without context for selection.

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