AI agent
Definition: An AI agent combines a model, tools and a decision loop to accomplish a multi-step task autonomously.
It's the shift from 'assistant' (which answers) to 'doer' (which acts). Claude Code is an example applied to development.
Frequently asked questions
How is an AI agent different from a chatbot?
A chatbot answers; an agent acts. It chains steps, calls tools (search, code, APIs) and decides what to do next to reach a goal. Claude Code is an example applied to software development.
Is an AI agent autonomous?
Partly. It decides steps within a defined scope, but stays bounded by guardrails, tool permissions and — for sensitive actions — human approval.