What Is an API? A Simple 2-Sentence Explanation



An API (Application Programming Interface) is like a waiter at a restaurant — it takes your request (like “get me the menu”), delivers it to the kitchen (the server), and brings back the result (the food).

In tech terms, it’s how software talk to each other behind the scenes — whether it’s an app getting weather data, logging you in with Google, or powering your chatbot with AI.

🍴 Real-Life Example

Let’s say you use a weather app. That app doesn’t generate the weather — it asks an API like “Hey, what’s the weather in Mumbai?” and gets the latest forecast from a weather server.

🛠 Why It Matters

APIs are everywhere — when you log in, pay online, ask ChatGPT a question, or even scroll Instagram.
Learning what they do unlocks your understanding of how most apps and services work today.

🏁 TL;DR

APIs are messengers between software. You don’t see them, but they make modern apps possible.

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