splunk_search_events

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden but only discloses that it retrieves events and supports offset/count pagination. It does not state whether the operation is read-only, whether it has side effects, permission requirements, rate limits, or error behavior.

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 short and front-loaded with the core purpose, followed by a compact parameter list. It avoids redundancy with the schema's defaults, though the 'Args:' formatting is slightly raw and could be more polished.

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 tool's moderate complexity (3 parameters, output schema provided) and the absence of annotations, the description covers the basics but omits critical context like differentiation from the many sibling search tools and any behavioral constraints. It is minimally complete but not thorough.

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 0%, so the description must compensate. It provides a brief one-line explanation for each parameter (sid, offset, count), which is adequate but lacks detail on formats, valid ranges, or default behavior (defaults are only in the schema).

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 a specific verb ('Retrieve') and resource ('raw events associated with a Search Job'), making the core purpose immediately understandable. However, it does not differentiate this tool from sibling tools like splunk_search_results or splunk_search_preview, which likely also return search data.

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 provides no guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives. It only lists parameters, leaving the agent to infer that it should be used after obtaining a Search Job ID, with no mention of prerequisites or sibling tools.

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