fed_register_search_documents

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

No annotations are provided, and the description lacks information on pagination, rate limits, authentication, or result behavior. It only describes what the tool does, not how it behaves or any side effects.

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 sentences clearly front-load the purpose and include a usage example. Every sentence contributes meaning without unnecessary detail.

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 search tool with 7 parameters and no output schema or annotations, the description is adequate for basic understanding but insufficient for advanced usage (e.g., pagination, result structure, error handling).

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 71%, and the description adds value for agencySlugs by referencing fed_register_list_agencies. Other parameters have basic schema descriptions; query and perPage lack descriptions. The main description reiterates filter types but adds little beyond schema.

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 Federal Register documents and lists document types and filters. It distinguishes from siblings like ecfr_search and fed_register_get_document by specifying the resource, but does not explicitly contrast with them.

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 gives a concrete usage example ('what new VA cybersecurity rules came out this quarter?') and implies regulatory context, but does not specify when not to use or mention alternatives like ecfr_search.

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