Summary  
A tool is an externally executed function that a language model can invoke on demand—sending a request, running the function outside the model, and returning the result—to extend the model’s capabilities beyond its built-in knowledge.

General domain of usage  
AI chatbots and language model agents interacting with external APIs or services.

One word you'll keep hearing around AI: **tools**. It sounds vague — it's not.



## A Tool Is Something Claude Can Call

A **tool** is a function wired up so Claude can use it on demand:

These are examples of the tools available on our platform that you can use.

Note

Claude doesn't run the tool itself – it writes a request, the tool runs outside the model, the result comes back as text. That round-trip is the **tool call**.

**A tool is a capability Claude can reach for when its own knowledge isn't enough.**

A hands-on, beginner-friendly course designed for non-technical business users to understand and leverage AI tools and concepts in their daily work. The course covers foundational AI concepts, effective communication with AI, practical use of AI-powered tools, and building simple AI assistants.

Introduction to artificial intelligence, large language models, and essential AI vocabulary for business users.

Learn how to communicate effectively with AI systems through prompt engineering and tone selection.

Explore how AI can be integrated with business tools for research, note-taking, and data analysis.

Learn the basics of agent personas and how to build and tune simple AI assistants for work.

What Is a Tool?

A Tool Is Something Claude Can Call