search_repositories

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

With no annotations, the description must fully disclose behavioral traits. It fails to state that this is likely a read-only operation, what kind of search (full-text, name, etc.) is performed, or any side effects. The description adds almost no behavioral context.

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 sentence, which is concise but under-specified. It wastes no words but also fails to provide necessary details. Structure is minimal, lacking any breakdown or bullet points that could improve clarity.

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?

Given the tool has 3 parameters, no output schema, and no annotations, the description is severely incomplete. It does not cover return value, pagination behavior, default values, or any authentication requirements. The agent cannot reliably invoke this tool based on this description alone.

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 compensate. It only says 'Search for GitLab projects' and does not explain the purpose of any parameter (page, search, per_page). The parameter names are somewhat self-explanatory, but the description does not add 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 'Search for GitLab projects' clearly states the action (search) and resource (GitLab projects). It distinguishes from sibling tools like list_group_projects, which list projects within a group, and create_repository, which creates. However, it lacks specificity about search scope or matching criteria, preventing a perfect score.

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?

No usage guidance is provided. The description does not mention when to use this tool over alternatives (e.g., list_group_projects vs. search_repositories), nor any prerequisites or limitations. The agent receives no contextual advice.

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