preprocess_signal

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It discloses the five-step processing pipeline (DC offset removal, notch, bandpass, normalization, windowing) and states return value. Lacks specific side effects or permission requirements, but adequate.

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 concise: two sentences plus a numbered list of steps. Front-loaded with purpose, no wasted words. Every sentence adds value.

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 parameter count (7) with full schema coverage, output schema exists, and the processing pipeline is described, the description is fairly complete. Could mention constraints like signal length requirements or error handling.

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%, so baseline 3. Description does not add new meaning beyond parameter descriptions in the schema. The listed steps paraphrase param purposes but no additional semantics.

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 the tool preprocesses a stator-current signal for spectral analysis, listing the sequence of operations. Distinguishes from sibling spectral analysis tools like compute_spectrum by being the preparatory step.

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?

Implied usage: preprocessing before spectral analysis. No explicit when-to-use or alternatives, but context from sibling tools makes it clear. Missing explicit guidance on when not to use.

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