regulatory_search_open_rulemakings

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

Discloses all behavioral traits: read-only, no side effects, idempotent, US federal only, 4-hour cache, verified source, fallback to report_feedback. No annotations provided, so description fully covers transparency.

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?

Well-structured with clear sections but slightly dense. Every sentence adds value, including fallback instruction. Not overly verbose.

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?

Complete for a 3-param tool with output schema: covers purpose, parameters, safety, usage guidance, caching, and error reporting. No missing elements.

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?

Adds meaning beyond schema by explaining keyword (topic examples), agency (abbreviation, optional, defaults to all), status (options open/closed/all, default open). Could clarify agency format (case, abbreviation vs full) but still good.

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 action (search), resource (open rulemakings and public comment periods), and source (Regulations.gov and Federal Register). Distinguishes from sibling regulatory_fetch_docket_details.

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?

Explicitly tells when to use this tool (monitoring regulatory activity on a topic) and when to use an alternative (regulatory_fetch_docket_details for full detail with a docket ID). Also notes read-only, idempotent, US federal only.

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