pubmed_search

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

Annotations already declare readOnlyHint, destructiveHint, idempotentHint, and openWorldHint. The description adds behavioral context about query syntax (MeSH, field tags) and the effect of 'days' on the PDat field, without contradicting annotations. It does not detail pagination or rate limits, but annotations suffice.

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?

Three sentences, front-loaded with the core purpose. Every sentence adds value: purpose, syntax guidance, and parameter explanation. No wasted words.

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?

An output schema exists, so return values are documented. The description covers the main use case and key parameters, but omits details on max_results and response_format. For a tool with 4 parameters and annotations, it is nearly complete.

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 add meaning. It explains 'query' (plain vs advanced) and 'days' (filters by PDat), but does not document 'max_results' (default 20) or 'response_format' (markdown/json). This is a gap, though defaults are visible in 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 'Search PubMed for biomedical publications', which is a specific verb and resource. It distinguishes from sibling tools by providing PubMed-specific query syntax, making the purpose unmistakable.

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 explicit guidance on when to use plain keywords vs advanced MeSH/field tags, and explains the 'days' parameter for date filtering. It does not explicitly state when not to use this tool, but the context of sibling tools (arXiv, FDA, etc.) implies this is for PubMed-specific searches.

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