Structured outputs enforce a parseable format: JSON schemas, function calls, or XML tags.
Why It Matters for Agents
Agents are pipelines: one step’s output becomes the next step’s input. If output is not machine-parseable, errors propagate and amplify.
Key Patterns
- Define a schema and validate strictly.
- Return actionable errors when validation fails.
- Prefer deterministic repair loops over “please try again” prompts.