run_shodan

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden for behavioral transparency. It only states the lookup action but does not disclose whether it is read-only, requires authentication, has rate limits, or any side effects. The minimal description leaves the agent uninformed about important operational constraints.

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 a single sentence, perfectly front-loaded with the essential purpose. No redundant words; every part contributes to understanding. Given the tool's simplicity, this is optimal conciseness.

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?

For a simple lookup tool with one parameter and no output schema, the description covers the basic functionality. However, it lacks details about return format, pagination, error handling, and any dependencies (e.g., network access). The absence of usage context relative to 28 sibling tools also reduces completeness.

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% (one parameter 'query' with description 'IP address or hostname'). The description adds a slight nuance by specifying 'internet-exposed host', which clarifies the scope of the query. However, it does not elaborate on input format, validation, or examples. At high coverage, the baseline of 3 is appropriate.

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 action ('look up an internet-exposed host'), the target resource (Shodan), and the information returned (open ports, services, banners). It distinctly separates this tool from siblings like run_nmap (network scanning) or run_httpx (HTTP probing) by specifying Shodan as the data source.

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 usage guidance is provided. The description does not indicate when to prefer this tool over alternatives (e.g., run_shodan vs run_nmap for external recon), nor does it mention prerequisites (e.g., API key) or limitations (e.g., only works for publicly exposed hosts). The agent must infer context from the sibling list.

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