commandfollowing

Commandfollowing, sometimes written as command following, is the ability to interpret and execute instructions provided by an agent or user. It covers the effective translation of a directive into an action or a sequence of actions, and it encompasses both understanding what is asked and performing the required steps.

In human contexts, commandfollowing relates to task performance, compliance, and obedience. Success depends on factors such as the clarity and specificity of the instruction, the recipient’s motivation and working memory, task complexity, and social dynamics. In animal training, commandfollowing is a core component of cue-based learning, where cues paired with rewards shape reliable responses to specific signals.

In automated systems, including robotics and artificial intelligence, commandfollowing refers to the ability of software or machines to parse user instructions—often in natural language or structured commands—and to generate plans and carry out actions. This domain emphasizes robustness to ambiguity, safety constraints, and alignment with user intent. Failure modes include misinterpretation, partial execution, or actions that meet the letter but not the spirit of the instruction, necessitating verification, fail-safes, and human oversight.

Evaluation of commandfollowing uses task-based benchmarks, error analysis, and user feedback to measure accuracy, speed, and reliability across contexts. Limitations arise from unclear commands, domain shifts, and contextual dependencies, which can reduce transferability of learned behaviors.

Ethical considerations include ensuring autonomy and agency for humans, preventing manipulation, and safeguarding privacy and safety when autonomous agents follow instructions. Commandfollowing remains a cross-disciplinary concept linking cognitive, behavioral, and computational perspectives on directed action.