compare_search_periods

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

No annotations are provided, so the description must carry the behavioral disclosure burden. It adds useful context about site_url domain property coverage and how to filter by page, but does not disclose whether the operation is read-only, how the comparison is computed, or any side effects. The lack of annotations makes this a moderate score.

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 opens with a clear one-sentence summary followed by a structured Args list. Each parameter has a concise, informative explanation. There is no redundant or misleading content; every sentence earns its place.

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?

The description covers the parameters thoroughly and an output schema exists, so return values are presumably documented. However, it doesn't provide valid values for dimensions, and it lacks explicit guidance on selecting this tool over alternatives. Overall, it's complete enough for basic invocation but has minor gaps.

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 0%, and the description fully compensates by explaining every parameter: site_url format and examples, date formats, dimensions default, and limit default. This adds significant meaning beyond the bare schema titles.

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 states a specific action ('Compare search analytics data') on a clear resource ('between two time periods'). This distinguishes it from sibling tools like 'get_search_analytics' which typically fetch a single period. The verb+resource is specific and unambiguous.

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 usage context (for comparing two time periods) but does not explicitly state when to use this tool over sibling analytics tools such as 'get_search_analytics' or 'get_advanced_search_analytics'. No alternatives or exclusions are mentioned, but the title and summary give clear context.

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