Workflow
What is an AI workflow?
An AI workflow is a repeatable process that uses AI for one or more steps. It is more reliable than improvising in chat because the inputs, decisions, approvals, and outputs are defined ahead of time.
The parts of a workflow
- Input: the file, message, transcript, spreadsheet, URL, or goal.
- Instructions: what the AI should do and what rules it must follow.
- Tools: web search, files, browser, database, email, calendar, or code execution.
- Approval: the point where a human checks sensitive or external actions.
- Output: a draft, report, code change, video script, checklist, or completed task.
- Verification: the check that proves the output is correct enough to use.
Example workflow
A YouTube workflow might start with a topic, ask AI for ten angles, choose one, draft an outline, write the script, create a thumbnail prompt, prepare the description, and run an upload checklist. The human still chooses the angle and approves the final video.
A business workflow might read a customer email, identify the request, draft a response, attach the right document, and wait for approval before sending.
Why workflows beat random prompting
Random prompting depends on mood and memory. Workflows can be improved. Once the steps are visible, you can tighten the prompt, add a checklist, remove a risky tool, or improve the verification.