This document serves as a **practical guide for building agents**, which are defined as systems leveraging large language models to independently accomplish user tasks through workflow execution and tool use. It outlines the **core components of an agent**, including models, tools, and instructions, and discusses **when agent-based solutions are most appropriate**, particularly for complex, ambiguous scenarios that resist traditional automation. The guide further explores **agent design foundations**, **orchestration patterns** for single and multi-agent systems, and the critical role of **guardrails** in ensuring safe and reliable agent behavior. Ultimately, it encourages an incremental approach to agent development, emphasizing the importance of strong foundational elements and continuous refinement.

Sources: https://cdn.openai.com/business-guides-and-resources/a-practical-guide-to-building-agents.pdf