reddit_search

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

Discloses that it searches public content and returns normalized post entries. Lacks explanation of pagination (despite 'after' parameter) and does not describe error conditions or rate limits. With no annotations, the description carries full burden but is minimal.

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?

Very short (two sentences), each sentence adds value. Could include more information without being verbose, but structure is clean and front-loaded.

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?

Adequate for a simple search tool with well-documented parameters. However, missing output schema and lack of usage context (e.g., pagination, limits) leave some gaps for an agent to infer.

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?

All parameters have descriptions in the schema (100% coverage), so baseline is 3. The tool description adds no extra meaning beyond what is in the schema. No additional context for parameter usage is provided.

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?

Clearly states it searches Reddit posts and returns normalized public post entries. The name and description make the general search intent clear, but it does not explicitly differentiate from sibling tools like reddit_subreddit_posts or reddit_user_posts.

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 guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. Does not mention when not to use it (e.g., for a specific subreddit's posts) or what distinguishes it from other Reddit tools.

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