Perplexity API Platform MCP Server

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint=true and openWorldHint=true, indicating safe, external data access. The description adds valuable behavioral context beyond this by specifying the return format ('ranked search results with titles, URLs, snippets, and metadata') and the tool's strength for 'up-to-date' information, which helps the agent understand output structure and timeliness without contradicting annotations.

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 efficiently structured in two sentences: the first states the core functionality and output, and the second provides usage context. Every phrase adds value without redundancy, making it front-loaded and appropriately sized for a search tool.

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, rich annotations (readOnlyHint, openWorldHint), 100% schema coverage, and the presence of an output schema (implied by context signals), the description is complete enough. It covers purpose, output format, and ideal use cases, leaving technical details to structured fields.

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%, providing full documentation for all 4 parameters. The description doesn't add any parameter-specific details beyond what the schema already covers, such as explaining how 'country' affects results or typical 'query' formats. This meets the baseline of 3 when schema coverage is high.

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 specific action ('Performs web search') and resource ('using the Perplexity Search API'), and distinguishes it from siblings by emphasizing web search functionality rather than conversational or analytical approaches. The phrase 'Perfect for finding up-to-date facts, news, or specific information' further clarifies its distinct use case.

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 clear context for when to use this tool ('Perfect for finding up-to-date facts, news, or specific information'), which implicitly suggests it's for factual retrieval rather than reasoning or research tasks handled by siblings. However, it doesn't explicitly name alternatives or state when not to use it, which prevents a perfect score.

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