AIGlossaryLab
⌕
← Back
DevelopmentIntermediate2023

Function Calling

Function Calling

Function calling lets an AI request a specific software action, such as checking the weather or creating a calendar event.

Explained simply

Function calling lets an AI request a specific software action, such as checking the weather or creating a calendar event.

1User asks
→
2AI selects function
→
3Software runs it
→
4Result returns

At a glance

Category
Development
Difficulty
Intermediate
Introduced
2023

Real example

An AI requests a calendar function to find free times rather than guessing your schedule.

Why it matters

It gives you a clear way to understand where this idea fits in AI and how it affects the tools you use.

Timeline

Origins

The ideas behind Function Calling begin developing.

2023

Function Calling becomes a recognised term or technique.

Wider use

Research and practical applications increase.

Modern AI

Function Calling becomes connected to newer AI systems and products.

Today

Function Calling remains relevant in the development area of AI.

Dates for broad concepts may describe the period when the idea emerged or became widely used, rather than one exact invention date.

Learn next

Continue with these connected terms:

APIAn API is a connection that lets two pieces of software ask each other for information or actions.→AgentAn AI agent is an AI that can work toward a goal by planning steps, using tools and taking actions—not just replying to a question.→MCPMCP is an open standard that helps AI applications connect to tools, files and data sources in a consistent way.→

Simple infographic

A quick visual way to understand Function Calling.

1User asks
→
2AI selects function
→
3Software runs it
→
4Result returns
1 of 6

Was this helpful?

Your feedback helps improve this explanation.