What is Structured Output?
Forcing a model to return data in a fixed, machine-readable format such as JSON.
Formal Definition
Structured output constrains a model to return responses in a predefined schema, typically JSON, so the result can be parsed and used by software reliably. AI Stock Challenge requires every model to return the same trade-recommendations schema through each provider's structured-output feature, which is what makes decisions from different vendors directly comparable and executable.
In Simple Terms
It is making an AI answer in a strict form, like filling out a form instead of writing an essay, so a program can read and act on the answer without guessing.
Example
Each model must return its trades as structured JSON listing symbol, action, and shares, so the system can execute them and compare models on identical fields.