# Single agent or multiple agents: test the handoff

Start from the work that must be done. A separate agent may help when it owns a distinct task with a clear interface. Compare the same task with and without the split, including missing context, validation effort, cost and recovery behavior.

## Worked example

A research agent passes a summary to a writing agent but omits the source dates. The writer can produce a polished answer using stale material. A handoff contract should carry source references and constraints alongside prose.

## Copyable prompt

```text
Evaluate whether [WORKFLOW] needs multiple agents. Define each proposed responsibility and the exact input/output contract at each handoff. List context that could be lost. Compare a single-agent baseline with the split using the same acceptance criteria. Leave cost and quality as unknown until measured. Include a failed-handoff recovery path.
```

## Checklist

- Define a single-agent baseline.
- Specify each handoff contract.
- Carry evidence and constraints with the summary.
- Measure coordination and recovery overhead.

## Further reading

[Anthropic: building effective agents](https://www.anthropic.com/engineering/building-effective-agents)