search_catalog_tool

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

With no annotations provided, the description bears full responsibility for behavioral transparency. It does not disclose whether the tool is read-only, requires authentication, supports pagination, or handles partial matches. The description is too brief to inform an AI agent about side effects or safety.

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, concise sentence that quickly conveys the tool's purpose. However, it lacks structured details (e.g., bullet points for parameters) that would enhance readability without increasing length much.

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 has three optional parameters and an output schema, the description fails to explain search behavior (e.g., whether query is fuzzy, if filters combine with AND/OR). It does not mention the output format or any constraints, leaving significant gaps for an AI agent.

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 description mentions searching by 'name, kind, or owner,' but the actual parameter 'query' is not explicitly linked to 'name.' The mapping between description terms and schema parameters is incomplete and potentially misleading. Schema coverage is 0%, so the description should clarify each parameter's role, but it does not.

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 the Backstage service catalog, specifying three searchable fields. It distinguishes itself from sibling tools like get_entity_tool (single entity retrieval) but does not explicitly contrast with other search-like tools.

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 guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., get_entity_tool for single entity lookup, get_ownership_tool for ownership queries). There are no when-not-to-use instructions or prerequisite conditions.

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