search_openalex

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

No annotations provided. Description only states it returns list of paper metadata, but does not disclose any behavioral traits like rate limits, authentication, or potential side effects. Minimal beyond the schema.

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?

Very concise: one sentence plus a structured list of args/returns. Front-loaded with purpose. No unnecessary words.

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?

Covers purpose and parameters. Mentions return type. With output schema likely documenting fields, it is adequate. However, lacks details on pagination or result count. Still complete enough for a simple search tool.

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 has no descriptions, so description compensates by explaining both parameters, including default for max_results and an example for query.

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 the tool searches academic papers from OpenAlex. Distinguishes from siblings that search other sources by specifying the source.

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?

Does not provide explicit when to use vs alternatives. Implicit by naming OpenAlex, but no guidance on when not to use or alternatives among many sibling search tools.

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