> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.loadmill.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.loadmill.com/introduction/readme-1/what-is-an-api-endpoint.md). # What is an API endpoint? An API endpoint is a specific URL that your application can access to retrieve data or perform an action. Each endpoint is designed to perform a specific task, such as retrieving data from a database or adding new data to a database. API endpoints are typically defined by the functionality they provide, such as retrieving all users from a database or creating a new user. However, endpoints can also be defined by their formats, such as JSON, XML, or HTML. When you make a request to an API endpoint, the server will respond with the data you requested or the results of the action you performed. The format of the response will be determined by the format of the endpoint (JSON, XML, or HTML). ![](/files/zjD2X2Z3T0fFFhCCK4W0) --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.loadmill.com/introduction/readme-1/what-is-an-api-endpoint.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.