> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://studio.docs.ai.vonage.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://studio.docs.ai.vonage.com/whatsapp/nodes/start-node.md).

# Start node

The **Start** node is essential for the functionality of every agent and is automatically placed on the building canvas prior to creating the conversational flow. 

This node indicates the beginning of the flow and has to be connected to the following nodes in order to initialize the flow. If not connected, the agent cannot be reached by the user.

<figure><img src="/files/lWXAPXP7BqzyxmYmygG2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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# Agent Instructions
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