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

# Tools

> Give your agent access to search, data, image generation, and other paid APIs.

Tools let your agent call individual APIs through your Locus balance. It can
generate an image, verify an email, retrieve a forecast, or look up company
data without a separate account or API key for each provider.

## Find a tool for your task

Ask your agent for the outcome you want. It can search the catalog and compare
available tools and prices.

```text title="Try this prompt" wrap theme={null}
Find an image-generation tool that supports a transparent background. Show me the available models and prices before I choose one.
```

Name a provider when you have a preference. Otherwise, let the agent find a
match. You can also browse the [API directory](/locus-pro/catalog-directory).

## Enable access

<Steps>
  <Step title="Choose a tool">
    Open **Tools** in the dashboard and search for the provider or action.
    Review what it does and what it costs.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Turn it on">
    Enable the actions you want your agent to use. Ordinary tools start disabled.
    Your agent can also send you an access request to approve.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Continue in your agent">
    Ask it to complete the task. The result includes the charge and remaining
    balance, and the call appears under **Usage**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

You can turn tools off at any time. An enabled tool may be temporarily paused
if its provider is unavailable. If your agent does not see a newly enabled
tool, refresh its tool list.

## Check the cost

<Note>
  Discovery and quotes are free. Paid executions use your prepaid balance.
</Note>

For a large batch or variable-price request, ask your agent to quote the work
and set a maximum charge first. Manage your overall spending under
[Credits](/locus-pro/individual/account-and-usage).

## Use a Recipe for a complete task

[Recipes](/locus-pro/individual/recipes) combine providers for outcomes such as
cited research, company enrichment, or flight comparisons. Choose a direct
Tool when a particular provider or API operation matters.