reddit_get_trends

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

With no annotations, the description should fully disclose behavior. It only mentions getting 'trend articles and insights' but omits details like response format, pagination behavior (though hinted by params), or any side effects. It is insufficient for understanding the tool's operation.

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 a single, concise sentence that conveys the main purpose without wasted words. However, it could be slightly expanded to include key details without losing conciseness.

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 the lack of output schema and the presence of four optional parameters, the description does not adequately inform about what the tool returns (e.g., structure of trend articles, pagination metadata). It feels incomplete for an agent to fully understand the tool's capabilities.

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% with clear parameter descriptions in the schema. The tool description adds no extra meaning beyond the schema, so it meets the baseline but does not enhance understanding or provide usage hints for parameters.

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 it retrieves Reddit trend articles and insights, which distinguishes it from sibling tools focused on specific subreddits, listing, or search. However, 'what's trending' is somewhat vague and could be more specific about the type of trend data returned.

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?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool over alternatives like reddit_get_subreddit or reddit_search. The description implies it's for trends, but lacks explicit context for choosing it.

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