discover_tools

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose behaviors. It states the tool is a read-only search returning ranked definitions in a specific format, which is adequate. However, it omits any mention of side effects, rate limits, or scope (e.g., whether it searches across all modules). The behavior is minimally described but not fully transparent.

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 two sentences with no extra words. It front-loads the action and efficiently communicates purpose and return format. 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 the tool's simplicity (1 param, no annotations, output schema exists), the description covers the core purpose and output. It could mention that results are from all available tools or that it is a read operation, but it is largely complete for a search tool.

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 covers 100% of parameters (only 'query' with a description). The description rephrases the schema ('Natural language query') without adding new meaning, such as query format, length limits, or examples. Baseline score of 3 is appropriate since schema does the heavy lifting.

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 searches for tools using natural language, with a specific verb ('Search') and resource ('tools'). It explains the return format (matching definitions ranked by relevance, like list_tools), which differentiates it from siblings like list_modules and plan_query.

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 implies the tool is for finding tools by description, but provides no explicit guidance on when to use it versus alternatives like list_tools or call_tool. There are no 'when not to use' or exclusion criteria, leaving the agent to infer context.

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