get_recent_filings

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

Annotations (readOnlyHint, openWorldHint) already indicate read-only and open-world behavior. Description adds specific behavioral info: new filings appear within ~60 seconds, returns specific fields like accession number, dates, identities, and transaction count. No contradiction with annotations.

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?

Two dense sentences with all key information front-loaded: purpose, sorting, filtering, timing, alternative tool, output summary, and constraints. 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?

No output schema, but description lists returned fields (accession number, dates, identities, transaction count) and mentions subsequent use of get_filing for full detail. Covers timing, filtering, pagination, and sibling comparison. Complete for a simple paginated read tool.

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 covers all 3 parameters with descriptions, so baseline is 3. Description adds extra value by explaining the purpose of the ticker filter, noting pagination and max per_page limit, and describing output fields that imply what parameters control. Slight improvement over schema alone.

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?

Clearly states it's a live feed of newest SEC Form 4 filings, sorted most-recent-first, with optional ticker filter. Distinguishes from sibling get_transactions by specifying its use case for checking current activity rather than historical 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?

Explicitly tells when to use this tool ('what just happened') vs. get_transactions (filtered/historical). Also mentions free plan, pagination, and max 100 per page, giving clear operational context.

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