Perplexity AI Tutorial - How to use AI for Research

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through using Perplexity AI, a powerful AI-powered search engine and research platform. Developed to enhance your research capabilities, Perplexity AI combines the features of a chatbot with web search, delivering accurate and comprehensive answers to complex questions. This tutorial will cover its main features, benefits, and practical applications to help you leverage Perplexity AI effectively for your research needs.

Step 1: Understanding Perplexity AI

• Perplexity AI was founded in August 2022 as a research tool that enhances traditional search engines.
• It provides concise, ready-made answers by aggregating information from various sources.
• Unlike traditional search engines, it understands natural language queries and delivers well-rounded responses.

Step 2: Comparing Perplexity AI and Google Search

• Perplexity AI operates differently from Google Search by focusing on providing direct answers rather than links to sources.
• It synthesizes information from multiple web pages to ensure accurate responses.
• For complex queries requiring detailed information, Perplexity AI may offer more relevant answers than Google.

Step 3: Using the Answer Engine

• Input your question in natural language.
• Perplexity AI will search the web and relevant sources for you, returning a comprehensive answer.
• Review the provided links for additional information or verification.

Step 4: Comparing Perplexity AI and ChatGPT

• Perplexity AI combines search capabilities with AI, thus providing real-time information.
• ChatGPT relies on static datasets, which can lead to outdated or incorrect information.
• Use Perplexity AI for research that requires the latest data and sources.

Step 5: Utilizing Real-Time Information Gathering

• Perplexity AI continuously updates its database to provide users with the latest information.
• This feature is particularly useful for topics that are rapidly evolving, such as current events or trending technologies.

Step 6: Enabling Focus Mode

• Activate Focus Mode to filter sources based on your needs (e.g., academic papers, blogs, news articles).
• This helps streamline your research to the most relevant types of information.

Step 7: Attaching PDFs

• You can attach PDF files for analysis within Perplexity AI.
• Upload your document to extract information or insights, making it easier to reference during your research.

Step 8: Using the Collections Feature

• Create custom collections to group related searches or research topics.
• This allows you to manage multiple projects efficiently, helping you stay organized while researching different subjects.

Step 9: Exploring Perplexity AI Pro Features

• Consider upgrading to Perplexity AI Pro for enhanced capabilities such as advanced search features and additional tools for research.
• Evaluate the Pro benefits based on your specific research needs.

Conclusion

By following this tutorial, you should now have a solid understanding of how to use Perplexity AI for effective research. Remember to leverage its unique features, such as real-time information gathering and the ability to attach PDFs, to maximize your research potential. Explore further by trying out the Pro version if you find yourself frequently using the platform for extensive research tasks.