datasets_steam_playercounts_search

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

With no annotations, the description carries the burden of behavioral disclosure. It explains the data model (one doc per appid × day) and sort defaults, which helps the agent understand what to expect. It doesn't cover all behaviors like pagination or response format, but it provides meaningful insight beyond the schema.

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 three sentences, front-loading the tool's core function, then providing usage patterns, then the sort enum. Every sentence adds critical information with 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?

For a search tool with no output schema, it explains the dataset and common use cases well. Pagination and response fields are not covered, but the schema documents page and page_size, and the tool's name clearly indicates a search over player counts. It's suitably complete for most agent decisions.

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%, but the description adds value by explaining how parameters combine: `app_id` with `sort=date_desc` yields history, and `date` yields a snapshot. It also clarifies the sort enum meaning, enriching the schema's default descriptions.

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 'Search steam-playercounts dataset' and specifies the data structure (daily concurrent-player time series for tracked games, one document per appid × day). This distinguishes it from sibling dataset search tools by naming the exact dataset and its granularity.

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?

It provides concrete usage patterns: pair `app_id` with `sort=date_desc` for a game's history, or pass `date` for a snapshot. While it doesn't explicitly mention alternatives or exclusions, it gives clear context on when to use specific parameters, which is sufficient for a dataset search tool.

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