Human-in-the-Loop

What it is

Human-in-the-loop (HITL) means humans participate in the AI workflow, typically reviewing and approving key decisions before they're executed. The AI does work, pauses for human input, and continues based on that feedback. Humans remain part of the decision chain.

Why it matters

HITL balances AI capability with human oversight. It's particularly important for consequential actions—sending emails, making purchases, modifying files. HITL catches errors, prevents runaway automation, and keeps humans appropriately involved. Most production agents use some form of HITL.