> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://wiki.latch.bio/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Modes

> Choose between Proactive and Step-by-step execution modes.

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    Latch Agent offers two execution modes to match your workflow preferences. Choose **Proactive** mode for autonomous execution or **Step-by-step** mode for guided, incremental analysis with approval at each stage.
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    <img src="https://mintcdn.com/latchbio/O9ccDM5r9gHXixUG/images/agent/modes.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=O9ccDM5r9gHXixUG&q=85&s=a19651d993cdf9b82edfca8c589b9164" alt="Modes" width="1298" height="548" data-path="images/agent/modes.png" />
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## Execution Modes

### Proactive Mode

In **Proactive** mode, the agent creates a plan and executes it automatically without requiring approval. This mode is ideal for:

* **Experienced users** who trust the agent's capabilities
* **Well-defined tasks** with clear requirements
* **Time-sensitive analysis** where speed is important
* **Repetitive workflows** that follow established patterns

The agent will ask all questions it needs upfront to complete the plan, then work through it automatically from start to finish.

### Step-by-Step Mode (Default)

In **Step-by-step** mode, the agent pauses at each stage to show you results and get your approval before proceeding. This mode is ideal for:

* **Exploratory analysis** where you want to guide the process
* **Learning workflows** where you want to understand each step
* **Difficult datasets** where you want careful oversight
* **Complex analyses** where intermediate results inform next steps

You review each step's output, provide feedback, and approve before the agent continues.

## Switching Modes

You can switch between modes at any time during your session:

* **To Proactive**: Click the mode toggle to enable autonomous execution
* **To Step-by-step**: Click the mode toggle to require approval at each stage

## Best Practices

* Start with **Step-by-step** mode when exploring new analysis types
* Use **Proactive** mode for routine, well-understood workflows
* Switch to **Step-by-step** if results don't match expectations