compare_search_periods

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

No annotations are provided, and the description does not disclose behavioral traits such as whether it is read-only, any rate limits, required permissions, or side effects. For a comparison tool, it fails to mention if data is fetched from an API, cached, or if it modifies state.

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 structured as a docstring with parameter list. It is fairly concise for 7 parameters, but the parameter descriptions are somewhat verbose. Could be more terse without losing meaning.

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 covers required parameters adequately, and since there is an output schema, omitting return value details is acceptable. However, it lacks usage context and does not mention any prerequisites or limitations.

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 has 0% description coverage (no descriptions in JSON Schema), so the description carries full burden. The description explains each parameter's meaning and format (e.g., site_url formats, date format). This adds significant value beyond the 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 tool's purpose: comparing search analytics data between two time periods. The name 'compare_search_periods' and the description together distinguish it from siblings like 'get_search_analytics' or 'get_performance_overview', which do not perform comparisons.

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 parameter details but no explicit guidance on when to use this tool versus alternatives (e.g., 'get_search_analytics' for a single period). No when-not-to-use or context for selection is given.

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