find_similar_prospects

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

No annotations are provided, so the description adds key behaviors: 'Excludes the source domain by default' and 'via Exa.ai's neural search.' This gives insight into the search method and a default filtering action. It does not discuss rate limits or auth, but for a read-oriented 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?

Three concise, front-loaded sentences: purpose, usage scenario, and a key default behavior. Every sentence adds distinct value with no redundancy or filler.

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 simple 2-parameter tool with no output schema, the description covers the operation, input, appropriate use, and an important default behavior. It conveys that the output is URLs, which is sufficient for an agent to invoke this tool effectively.

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?

The schema covers the URL parameter but only gives type/range for limit. The description adds context to both: URL is a 'known-good prospect' reference, and limit is implicitly tied to '5-20 more like it.' This partially compensates for the schema's 50% coverage.

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 returns semantically similar URLs via Exa.ai's neural search, using a known-good prospect URL as input. This specifies the verb+resource and differentiates it from siblings like search_prospects or find_competitor_backlinks by requiring an existing reference URL.

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?

It explicitly says 'Use this when the caller already has one great prospect and wants 5-20 more like it,' providing a clear context. It does not name alternatives or when-not-to-use, but the prerequisite of a known-good URL implies the distinction from broader search tools.

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