search_reddit

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

With no annotations, the description carries full burden. It discloses that results are returned as JSON with specific fields, mentions pagination behavior (cursor-based), and notes slowness. It does not mention rate limits, authentication, or error handling, but for a search tool of this type, the disclosed behaviors are sufficient.

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 three sentences, front-loaded with purpose, includes key output details and pagination instructions. No superfluous information. Every sentence earns its place.

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 tool has 3 parameters, no output schema. The description covers the output format (fields), pagination mechanism, and performance caveat. It lacks error scenarios or authentication requirements, but given the tool's simplicity, it is reasonably 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 100%, so baseline is 3. The description adds the detail that cursor comes from 'data.nextCursor' and that stop condition is null, which is already in the schema's cursor description. It also describes output fields, not input parameters. Therefore, minimal added value beyond 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 the verb 'Search' and the resource 'Reddit posts across all of Reddit' with output format 'as JSON'. It lists included fields (title, URL, subreddit, author, timestamp, NSFW flag), distinguishing it from siblings like search_google or search_amazon which have different scopes.

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 explains pagination: 'Use data.nextCursor as the cursor parameter for the next page; stop when nextCursor is null.' It also notes that the tool is 'Slower than other platforms (5-15 seconds)', which sets expectations. However, it does not explicitly state when to prefer this tool over alternatives or any exclusions.

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