AI

AI agent

By Paul Brock·Updated on 22-04-2026
TL;DR

An AI agent is a software system around a language model that autonomously performs tasks, uses tools, and iterates decisions toward a goal.

An AI agent combines an LLM with tools (search, code execution, databases, APIs) and a feedback loop. Instead of one-shot answers, the agent plans, executes and self-corrects multiple steps until a goal is reached. Examples: Claude Code, Manus, ChatGPT Agents, and custom-built agents via frameworks like LangChain or the Anthropic SDK. 2025-2026 is known as the 'year of the AI agent'.

Example

A marketing agent is tasked 'analyse our top-10 competing blogs and write a gap-analysis report'. The agent: scrapes URLs, categorises topics, identifies gaps in own content, writes report in standard format. 30 minutes vs. a full day manual.

Frequently asked questions

Difference between chatbot and agent?

Chatbot: one prompt, one answer. Agent: multiple iterations, tool use, self-correction, goal-directed planning. Modern AI assistants are often hybrid.

Related terms

Further reading

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