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An AI agent is a large language model (LLM) with agency. That means it can decide how to act based on a goal, not just follow a preset script.
Think of it like this: the LLM is the brain, and it can “use tools” like sending emails, updating CRMs, or calling APIs — just like a human would use a computer. These tools are APIs (bits of code that let you do things online). Normally, to use these APIs, a developer writes code. But now, the LLM writes that code itself, in real time, choosing which tools to use, in what order, and how — based on the goal it’s trying to achieve.
In short:
🧠LLM + 🛠️ Tools + 🎯 Autonomy = AI Agent
That’s where the word “agent” comes from — agency, the ability to make decisions and act.
Let’s say your goal is: “Show up prepared for every meeting — without digging through email, calendar, and CRM.”
That’s a perfect job for an AI agent.
🛠The Tools It Can Use: Your calendar — to know who you're meeting
Your email — to check past conversations
Your CRM — to see deal stage, notes, or history
Online search — to fill in missing context
How It Works The agent doesn’t follow a fixed script. It picks which tools to use and in what order, based on what it finds.
Let’s see two examples: Example 1: It's a Sales Call The agent sees a meeting on your calendar.
It checks the CRM → finds a matching record. The deal is already in late stage.
It checks your email → sees a recent thread with detailed questions about pricing.
Based on that, it skips online research — because it already has what it needs.