Workflow
Also: workflows
A fixed sequence of steps a task goes through, which may include AI steps and human checks.
The fuller definition
A workflow is an organized process with defined stages, inputs, outputs, and rules for moving between them. It may include scripts, models, and human decisions.
- Extract
Candidate events
- Verify
Compare with originals
- Export
Reviewed chart
A simplified relationship, not a screenshot or a complete design.
A concrete example
Extract candidate events, check their source passages, then export a reviewed chronology.
The distinction that matters
A fixed workflow can be useful without an autonomous agent; the terms are not interchangeable.
Related terms
AI agent
An AI system that takes steps to do a task. It may choose tools, search, or work with files. Its access should have clear limits.
APIs & softwareScript
A short program that does one job, like renaming a folder of files.
Agents & automationHuman in the loop
A design where a person reviews or approves what the AI does before it counts.
Where it is taught
Prompts, skills, workflows, and agentsSource and further reading
Anthropic · Building effective agentsThe definition and example are written for this library. The link gives background, official documentation or legal authority as labelled. Legal scope depends on the jurisdiction and current text; product features depend on release and settings.