Reasoning
Level 2
A model working through a problem in steps before giving an answer.
Term 4 of 7 in AI agents
In plain language
Newer models can spend extra effort thinking privately before responding. This helps a lot with maths, logic and planning, at the cost of being slower and pricier.
Think of it like this
Showing your working on paper rather than blurting out the first number.
Why it matters
Reasoning models are worth the wait for hard problems and overkill for simple ones. Matching model to task saves money.
Next terms in AI agents
- AI agentAn AI system that can take steps and use tools to complete a goal, not just answer.
- Tool useLetting a model call outside software to get facts or take action.
- Function callingThe mechanism that lets a model request a specific piece of software with specific inputs.
- WorkflowA fixed sequence of steps an AI system follows.