backtest_signal

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

No annotations exist, so description carries full burden. Mentions outputs but omits side effects, permissions, or limitations (e.g., whether backtest writes to logs, read-only nature). Incomplete for a tool with no annotations.

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, no verbosity, front-loaded with purpose, then output details. Every sentence adds value.

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?

With no output schema, description partially explains return values (per-day counts, aggregate stats like trigger rate and avg confidence) but lacks details on other possible outputs, error handling, or data source assumptions. Adequate but could be more thorough.

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 100%, so each parameter is already documented. Description adds little beyond naming outputs, not enhancing parameter meaning. Baseline 3 maintained.

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?

Description clearly states verb 'Run a backtest', resource 'signal', and scope 'over a date range'; specifies outputs (per-day trigger counts, aggregate statistics) and use case (strategy optimization). Distinguishes from siblings like simulate_signal.

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?

Implied usage from 'Essential for strategy optimization' but no explicit when-to-use or when-not-to-use guidance. No comparison with sibling tools like simulate_signal provided.

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