> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.hitheo.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Cost Optimization

> Tips for reducing API costs while maintaining quality.

## Use the Right Mode

| Mode    | Cost     | Use When                                                    |
| ------- | -------- | ----------------------------------------------------------- |
| `fast`  | Lowest   | Simple Q\&A, classification, short responses                |
| `auto`  | Variable | Let Theo decide — usually picks the cheapest adequate model |
| `think` | Higher   | Complex reasoning, multi-step analysis                      |
| `code`  | Higher   | Code generation, architecture design                        |

## Tips

1. **Set `mode: "fast"` for simple tasks** — routes to Theo Flash (cheapest)
2. **Use semantic caching** — identical requests are free after the first call
3. **Monitor usage** — `GET /api/v1/usage` shows cost breakdown by mode and model
4. **Set daily caps** — configure spending limits in the billing dashboard
5. **Use per-request skills** instead of installing everything — fewer skills = less prompt tokens
6. **Lower `max_iterations`** — if you know the task needs only 1-2 tool calls, set `max_iterations: 3`