Search Reddit

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It discloses the return format ('JSON with posts and meta (limit, has_more, next_cursor)') and pagination mechanism, which is valuable behavioral context beyond the schema. It does not cover rate limits or errors, but for a read-only search tool this is adequate.

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 two concise sentences, front-loaded with purpose and return format. No wasted words; every sentence earns its place.

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 6 parameters and no output schema, the description covers the return structure and mentions subreddit restriction. It does not explain all parameters, but the schema handles that. Pagination is hinted via meta.next_cursor. This is complete enough for a 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 coverage is 100%, with every parameter described. The description only reinforces the subreddit restriction and pagination cursor (via meta.next_cursor), adding no new semantics beyond the schema. Baseline 3 is appropriate.

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 uses a specific verb ('Search') and resource ('posts on Reddit'), clearly distinguishing from siblings like reddit_get_post (retrieving a single post) and reddit_list_posts (listing posts without a search query). It also mentions the optional subreddit restriction, adding specificity.

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 implies usage (searching posts, optionally within a subreddit) but does not explicitly state when to use this tool vs alternatives or provide exclusions. Sibling names suggest different purposes, but the description itself lacks direct guidance like 'use reddit_get_post for a single post'.

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