What is AI Agent? Simple Explanation (2026)
AI Glossary
What is AI Agent?
Definition: An AI agent is an autonomous AI system that can plan, execute, and iterate on tasks with minimal human intervention. Unlike basic chatbots that respond to single prompts, agents can break down complex goals into steps, use tools, and adapt based on results.
How Does AI Agent Work?
AI agents combine an LLM (for reasoning) with tools (web search, code execution, file management) and memory (conversation history, knowledge bases). They use frameworks like ReAct (Reason + Act) to decide what action to take next based on observations.
Examples
Claude Code (coding agent), AutoGPT, Devin (AI software engineer), OpenAI Assistants, Custom GPTs with actions
Related Reading
Learn more about how AI Agent is used in practice:
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