search_context

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses that the tool performs multiple search methods and returns a Markdown string. It could add details about rate limits, performance characteristics, or side effects, but the provided information is adequate for understanding the tool's behavior.

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?

Two concise sentences: first clearly defines the tool's action and scope, second gives a usage hint and output format. No unnecessary words, perfectly front-loaded with key 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 no annotations, no output schema, and 4 parameters with full schema coverage, the description adequately covers the tool's purpose, search methods, and return type. It could mention result format structure or limitations, 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?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents all parameters thoroughly. The description adds little beyond the schema, only mentioning the output type. Baseline 3 is appropriate as the description does not detract but does not 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 'semantic + keyword + graph traversal search across all node types', which is a specific verb+resource combo and distinguishes from sibling tools like 'get_symbol_context' or 'get_context_briefing' that focus on narrower scopes.

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 says 'Use for broad discovery', providing clear context for when to use this tool over alternatives. However, it does not explicitly state when not to use it or name specific alternatives, which would be helpful for differentiation.

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