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    Planning Domain Definition Language (PDDL)

    AI fundamentals & modelsPDDLPlanning language
    Reading time: 2 min.Editorially reviewed on:

    Definition

    PDDL describes planning tasks with states, actions, and goals.

    A formal language for describing planning domains, actions, states, and goals.

    Simply explained

    A formal language specifies what is allowed to be done and which state should be reached at the end.

    Why it matters in practice

    The term helps to select, develop, evaluate AI systems in a well-founded manner and realistically assess their technical risks.

    Example from business

    A robot plan describes permissible actions, preconditions, and goal state.

    Limits and pitfalls

    • Hide real uncertainty and execution errors in a deterministic model.

    Origin & history

    PDDL was introduced in 1998 for the International Planning Competition and later extended.

    Use in mid-sized companies

    • Possible application: A robot plan describes permissible actions, preconditions, and goal state.

    Frequently asked questions

    What does Planning Domain Definition Language mean?

    A formal language for describing planning domains, actions, states, and goals. What mistakes should be avoided? Hiding real uncertainty and execution errors in a deterministic model.

    Sources

    Source checked on 10.10.2026. Editorial application examples are hypothetical; no evidence of real customer results.

    Editorially reviewed on:

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