mcp-server-3gpp

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

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It mentions the search functionality but lacks critical details: it doesn't specify if this is a read-only operation, what the output format looks like (though an output schema exists), whether there are rate limits, or how results are ranked. The description is minimal and doesn't compensate for the absence of annotations, leaving behavioral traits largely undefined.

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 highly concise and front-loaded, consisting of a single sentence that directly states the tool's function. It includes relevant examples (e.g., document types) without unnecessary elaboration. Every word earns its place, making it efficient and easy to parse for an AI agent, with no wasted 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 the tool's moderate complexity (3 parameters, 1 required), 100% schema description coverage, and the presence of an output schema, the description is somewhat complete but has gaps. It adequately covers the basic purpose but lacks usage guidelines and behavioral details. The output schema likely handles return values, reducing the need for description there, but the absence of annotations and insufficient behavioral context lowers the score to a minimal viable level.

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 has 100% description coverage, providing clear details for all three parameters (query, spec, maxResults). The description adds minimal value beyond the schema by listing example document types, but it doesn't elaborate on parameter usage, such as how the 'spec' filter interacts with the query or the implications of 'maxResults'. Given the high schema coverage, the baseline score of 3 is appropriate, as the description doesn't significantly enhance parameter understanding.

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's purpose: searching 3GPP specification documents by keywords, with specific examples of document types (TS 24.008, TS 24.301, TS 24.501, TS 36.300). It distinguishes from sibling tools like 'get_emm_cause' (which likely retrieves specific EMM causes) and 'list_specs' (which likely lists available specifications) by focusing on keyword search functionality. However, it doesn't explicitly differentiate from potential overlapping search tools beyond the scope of 3GPP documents.

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. It doesn't mention when to prefer this over 'get_emm_cause' (e.g., for broader searches vs. specific cause retrieval) or 'list_specs' (e.g., for content search vs. metadata listing). There's also no information about prerequisites, such as required authentication or access rights, leaving usage context implied but unspecified.

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