ask_knowledge_base

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

With no annotations, the description carries the full burden. It does mention that the tool returns source citations, which is helpful. However, it does not disclose whether the operation is read-only, what happens if no answer is found, or any potential side effects. The transparency is moderate but incomplete.

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 directly conveys the primary purpose and output. There is no redundant information, and it is well-structured for quick understanding.

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?

The description mentions the output (source citations) but omits important operational context such as error handling, expected behavior when no answer exists, or the role of top_k. Since there is no output schema, the description is not required to detail return fields, but the lack of parameter explanation and behavioral details leaves room for ambiguity.

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 schema provides only titles ('Question', 'Top K') and no descriptions. The tool description does not elaborate on the parameters or their expected values. There is no explanation of what 'top_k' controls or how it affects the answer. The schema coverage is 0%, and the description adds no clarification.

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 function: answering a question from the knowledge base and returning source citations. It uses a specific verb ('answer') and resource ('knowledge base'), and the output is specified as citations, which distinguishes it from a generic search.

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 does not provide any guidance on when to use this tool versus the sibling search_knowledge_base. It does not explicitly state that this tool should be used when a direct answer with citations is needed, nor does it mention conditions or alternatives. Users must infer the distinction.

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