---
name: zapier-workflow-concepts
description: >
  Use when asking what a Zap, trigger, action, search action, filter, path, or task means,
  how Zapier counts tasks, or the difference between a trigger and an action.
  Explains core Zapier terms and routes to canonical documentation.
license: MIT
compatibility: >
  Applies to docs.zapier.com public documentation.
metadata:
  author: zapier
---

# Zapier workflow concepts

A Zap is an automated workflow that connects apps. Each Zap has a trigger and one or more actions. When the trigger event occurs, the Zap runs its action steps.

## Core terms

| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zap | An automated workflow with a trigger and one or more actions |
| Trigger | The event that starts a Zap when new or updated data appears in an app |
| Action | A step that finds, creates, or updates data in an app |
| Create action | A step that creates or updates a single item in an app |
| Search action | A step that finds existing data, optionally with a create action when nothing matches |
| Filter | A built-in function that restricts a Zap to run only when conditions match |
| Paths | A built-in function that combines filters and actions for if-then branching |
| Formatter | A built-in function that changes text, number, and date data |
| Delay | A built-in function that holds a Zap for a set time before the remaining actions run |
| Input fields | Data from trigger and action steps that you map into later steps |
| Task | An action that a Zap completes successfully, counted against your plan's task allowance |
| Zap history | A log of live Zap runs with step data, errors, and task usage |

## Critical rules

- A trigger starts the Zap. Actions run after it.
- Only actions that succeed count toward task usage.
- Each successful MCP tool call uses two tasks. Failed tool calls use none.

## Canonical documentation

- [Zapier glossary](https://docs.zapier.com/integrations/quickstart/glossary)
- [Usage and billing in MCP](https://docs.zapier.com/mcp/overview/usage)
- [How task usage is measured](https://help.zapier.com/hc/en-us/articles/8496196837261)
- [Filters](https://help.zapier.com/hc/en-us/articles/8496276332557)
- [Paths](https://help.zapier.com/hc/en-us/articles/8496288555917)

## Related skills

- `zapier-mcp-guide`: MCP modes, connections, and limits
- `zapier-choose-your-path`: which developer path fits a goal