Agent
An AI that can take actions, not just respond to questions.
Definition
An agent (智能体) is an AI model that doesn't just generate text — it can also:
- Read files on your computer
- Edit documents
- Run commands
- Browse the web
- Use external tools
The key difference from a regular chatbot: an agent acts on your environment, not just inside a chat window.
How It Works
An agent is not a special kind of AI. It's the same language model (like Claude or GPT), but with:
- Tools — Capabilities to interact with the outside world (file system, web, databases)
- Autonomy — The ability to decide which tools to use and in what order
- Feedback loops — It can observe the results of its actions and adjust
When you ask an agent to "proofread my document," it:
- Decides it needs to read the file (uses the Read tool)
- Analyzes the content
- Decides to edit the file (uses the Edit tool)
- Reports what it did
Examples
| Not an Agent | Agent |
|---|---|
| ChatGPT web interface | Claude Code |
| Copy-paste workflow | Direct file editing |
| You run the commands | AI runs the commands |
Why It Matters
The shift from chatbots to agents is the paradigm shift this guide is built around. Instead of AI being a passive advisor, it becomes an active collaborator that can do work on your behalf.
Related Terms
See this term in context: Task 1: Grammar Check