Tool Use
An LLM invoking external functions to act beyond text generation.
/ quick answer
Tool use is the pattern where a model returns a structured call (name + arguments) that the runtime executes, then feeds the result back into the conversation for the next step. An LLM invoking external functions to act beyond text generation.
What is Tool Use?
Tool use is the pattern where a model returns a structured call (name + arguments) that the runtime executes, then feeds the result back into the conversation for the next step.
What is an example of Tool Use?
A model returns { tool: 'search_web', args: { q: 'Notion pricing 2026' } }; the runtime runs the search and returns hits to the model.
Why does Tool Use matter for AI and automation?
An LLM invoking external functions to act beyond text generation. It connects to the workflows, prompts and tool stacks linked on this page, so you can move from definition to execution without leaving Onexial.
/ continue exploring
Related concepts
The vocabulary this page depends on.
- →MCP (Model Context Protocol)
Open protocol that lets LLMs connect to tools, data sources and apps through a standard interface.
- →Agentic RAG
RAG where an agent decides what to retrieve, when, and from which source — instead of a single static query.
- →Agentic Workflow
A workflow where an LLM decides the next step instead of a hard-coded path.
- →Long-Term Memory
Persistent state an agent carries between sessions.
Related workflows
Turn this into a repeatable process.
- →Automated Competitor Research
From a product description to a structured competitor matrix in under 10 minutes.
- →Automated Lead Qualification & Outreach
Score every new lead and trigger personalized outreach in minutes.
- →How to Create a Website with AI
Go from idea to a live, custom-domain website in one afternoon using AI builders.
- →How to Build an AI Content System
A repeatable pipeline that turns one input into publish-ready content across every channel.
Related tool stacks
The tools that run it in production.
- →Agent Research Stack
Web-search-enabled agent for autonomous research tasks.
- →AI Research & Knowledge Stack
Default toolset for analysts, founders and creators doing deep research with AI.
Related prompts
Reusable prompts for this job.
- →MCP Tool Designer Prompt
Turn a plain-English capability list into a clean MCP tool schema.
Comparisons & alternatives
Pick between the options.
- →OpenAI vs Anthropic for Agents
Which provider builds better production agents in 2026.
- →CrewAI vs AutoGen vs LangGraph
Three approaches to multi-agent orchestration.
- →Cursor Agents vs Devin vs Lovable
Three ways AI writes code for you in 2026.
- →OpenAI vs Gemini for Agent Building
Both ship strong models and SDKs — differences are in tool calling, context and pricing.