preview_search_and_replace

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

With no annotations, the description must disclose behavioral traits. It states 'without writing output' but does not explain what the preview returns (e.g., count, list of changes) or whether an edit session is created. The lack of detail on side effects and output structure is a gap.

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 short sentence that efficiently conveys the core purpose. It front-loads the key information. However, it is slightly too brief given the lack of parameter details.

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 complexity (3 params, no schema descriptions, output schema exists but not detailed), the description is adequate but incomplete. It covers the main idea but omits parameter semantics and output details. The existence of an output schema reduces the need to explain return values, but behavioral context is still lacking.

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 0%, so the description should add meaning to parameters. It does not describe any parameters at all. While names like path, find, replace are somewhat self-explanatory, no additional context (e.g., path format, regex support, case sensitivity) is provided.

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's purpose: previewing a text replace as an edit session without writing output. It distinguishes from sibling tools like search_and_replace (which writes output) and preview_batch_replace. However, it could be more explicit about what the preview returns.

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 when the agent wants to see the impact of a replace before committing, but it does not explicitly mention alternatives or when not to use this tool. No guidance on when to prefer this over search_and_replace or preview_batch_replace.

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