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AI Agents vs. AI Workflows: A Simple Breakdown

AI agents and workflows are two buzzworthy topics in 2025’s tech scene. But what do they mean, and how are they different? In this issue, I’ll break it down for you.

Why Is Everyone Talking About AI Agents?

Search trends for AI agents are skyrocketing, with many dubbing 2025 "The Year of AI Agents." But why? Let's start with the basics:

  • AI Workflows are like pipelines: predictable, step-by-step processes.

  • AI Agents are more dynamic: decision-makers that adapt to changing inputs.

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AI Workflows: Predictable & Linear

Workflows follow a deterministic path. They move from one predefined step to another, like a CI/CD pipeline. For example:

  1. Search for trending tech news.

  2. Write a LinkedIn post based on the news.

  3. Schedule and publish it.

  4. Track the post’s performance.

Workflows are great for repetitive tasks that don’t require much flexibility.

AI Agents: Dynamic Decision-Makers

AI agents work with non-deterministic paths, meaning they can adjust based on the situation. They take a broader prompt and decide how to act.

Example prompt: "Create and post content based on trending tech news."

Here’s what an AI agent might do:

  • Search for trending news.

  • Decide which platform (LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.) is best to post on.

  • Create and optimize the content for that platform.

  • Publish it.

  • Monitor the performance and learn to improve future posts.

Agents can dynamically choose paths, optimize actions, and learn from outcomes, offering greater flexibility compared to workflows.

The Key Difference: Flexibility

The main distinction is how decisions are made:

  • Workflows: If X, then Y—predefined, linear.

  • Agents: If X, decide the best Y—adaptive, flexible.

Imagine hooking an AI agent up to multiple workflows. The agent can choose the best workflow or even create a new one on the fly.

What’s Next?

AI agents are opening up possibilities for dynamic systems, from browser automation to future operating systems. I’m even considering coding my own AI agent to see the concept in action.

Would you like a tutorial on building workflows or agents? Let me know!

Until next time,
Luke
(P.S. If you enjoyed this breakdown, hit reply with your thoughts!)

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