web_search

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

No annotations are provided, so the description carries the full burden. It discloses that results are returned as-is/unsummarized, describes the output shape (answer plus sources with title, URL, description), and advises passing results straight through. This is solid behavioral coverage, though it omits potential errors or rate-limit considerations.

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 slightly verbose but every sentence contributes—examples, sibling distinction, output format, and pass-through instruction. It is front-loaded with the primary purpose and avoids unnecessary filler.

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 search tool with no output schema, the description adequately covers return value structure, usage context, and behavioral guidance. No critical information is missing given the tool's simplicity and schema richness.

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%, so parameters are already well documented. The description adds example queries for the 'prompt' parameter but doesn't elaborate on 'brandId'. This meets the baseline for schema-heavy tools without adding significant extra meaning.

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?

Clearly states it performs a live web search and returns a text answer with sources. Includes specific example queries and explicitly distinguishes from the sibling search_web_images, making the tool's purpose unmistakable.

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?

Provides explicit when-to-use context ('for questions like...') and directly contrasts with search_web_images ('which only returns images'), giving the agent clear guidance on when to select this tool over the alternative.

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