get_manager_holdings_bulk

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

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It clearly discloses that this is a Tier 3 call, groups by quarter for efficiency, and results include both success and failure statuses per pair without raising errors. A thorough picture is given, though slightly more detail on rate limits or data freshness could push to 5.

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 begins with a short, direct summary, followed by efficiency rationale, parameter explanation, and return format. Each sentence adds value; no 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?

Despite lack of output schema, the description covers input, output, behavior, error handling, and usage context. It is complete for a bulk lookup tool of moderate complexity.

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 detailed docstring explains the pairs parameter format, constraints (min/max), and expected structure. It also describes the return format, including the per-item response with fields like status, n_positions, total_value_thousands, and holdings. Since schema coverage is 0%, the description compensates fully.

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 retrieves disclosed institutional holdings for multiple (cik, quarter) pairs at once, distinguishing it from the single-pair sibling get_manager_holdings. It specifies research-only data and cautions against inferring intent, making the purpose precise and differentiated.

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 explicitly says when to use this tool: when you need multiple holdings, comparing portfolios across periods, or surveying peer institutions, as it is more efficient than repeated single calls. It also sets expectations by noting per-pair errors do not raise exceptions, so the consumer must check the status field.

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