How to Use Perplexity AI: A Beginner’s Guide in 2024

Are you tired of sifting through a huge amount of search results or getting vague answers from other search engines?

You need a smarter way to find the information you’re looking for, right? Something that understands your questions and gives you precise answers, not just a list of links.

That’s where Perplexity AI comes in. It’s not your average AI-powered search engine. This guide will show you how to use Perplexity AI to get the answers you need fast.

Getting Started with Perplexity AI

Ready to ditch those frustrating search engines that leave you with more questions than accurate and informative answers? 

Awesome! Getting started with Perplexity AI is a breeze, whether you’re on your computer, tablet, or phone. Just download the app or head to their website. It’s totally free to use, and you don’t even need to create an account to start searching. 

But if you want to unlock some cool extra features, like saving your searches or customizing your settings, creating a free account is the way to go.

Now, let’s take a quick tour of how Perplexity AI works its magic. 

When you first open it, you’ll see a clean, simple search bar. Type in your question or topic, and Perplexity will do the rest. 

Unlike other AI-powered search engines that give you a list of websites to sift through, Perplexity AI will actually try to understand your question and give you a direct, easy-to-understand answer. You’ll see your search results right below the search bar, along with clear sources so you know where the information is coming from. Pretty cool, right?

The Basics of Searching with Perplexity

Ready to put Perplexity AI to the test? Here’s how to use it like a pro:

1. Ask it anything: Forget about trying to figure out the “right” keywords to use. With Perplexity, you can type in your question or topic using regular, everyday language. Want to know the history of pizza? Just ask, “Who invented pizza?” It’s that easy.
2. No more endless scrolling: Unlike a traditional search engine that gives you a mile-long list of links, Perplexity AI tries to answer your question directly at the top of the search results. No more clicking through pages and pages of websites to find what you need.
3. Get the full story: But wait, there’s more! If you want to dig deeper into a topic, Perplexity has you covered. Scroll down below the answer, and you’ll find a list of sources from which you can get even more information. This is different from Google search or other search engines, where you often have to open multiple tabs to get a full picture.
4. Follow the breadcrumb trail: Perplexity AI also suggests related topics and questions that you might find interesting. It’s like having a personal research assistant guiding you to the next step in your learning journey. Explore these suggestions, and you might discover something new!

Beyond the Basics: Perplexity AI’s Cool Tricks

Perplexity AI is way more than just a smarter way to search. It’s got some seriously cool tricks up its sleeve that make finding information even easier and more fun:

1. Copilot: Your Search Buddy: Ever wish you had a friend who could help you narrow down your search and find exactly what you need? That’s where Copilot comes in. It’s like having a conversation with Perplexity AI. Ask follow-up questions, get clarifications, and explore different angles without having to start a new search every time. It’s like having a personal tutor for any topic!
2. Collections: Your Research Superpower: Are you tired of losing track of all those interesting articles and websites you find online? With Collections, you can save and organize your research in one place. It’s like having your digital library where you can easily revisit your favorite sources or share them with friends.
3. Search Focus: Find the Right Type of Answer: Sometimes, you’re looking for a specific type of answer. Maybe a video tutorial or a news article. Perplexity AI lets you focus your search on particular kinds of content, so you don’t have to wade through a bunch of irrelevant results.
4. Keep it Private: Perplexity AI takes your privacy seriously. You can adjust your settings to control how much information you share. And if you want the absolute best experience with extra features like longer conversations and more saved searches, you can upgrade to Pro Search.

With all these extra tools, Perplexity AI goes way beyond what traditional search engines can do. It’s designed to give you the most relevant answers in the most concise answers possible.

Using Perplexity AI for Everyday Tasks: More Than Search

Okay, so we know Perplexity AI can help you find answers faster than traditional search engines. But did you know it can be your go-to tool for a bunch of other things?

• School Projects and Research: Perplexity is perfect for school projects. It can help you gather information, brainstorm ideas, and even check your facts before you turn in that paper. It’s like having a super smart research assistant right in your pocket!
• Writing Help: Need to write an essay or a report? Perplexity can help you get started with outlines and summaries. It can even help you find the right words and information to make your writing super clear and interesting.
• Learn Something New: Have you ever had a burning question about something but didn’t know where to look for the answer? Perplexity AI is like a never-ending library. You can explore any topic you’re curious about, from the history of ancient civilizations to the latest scientific discoveries.
• Stay in the Know: Want to keep up with what’s happening in the world? Perplexity AI can help you stay informed about current events, news, and trends. It’s a great way to make sure you’re always in the loop.
• Get Help with Problems: Are you stuck on a math problem or trying to fix your computer? Perplexity can often help you find solutions and troubleshooting tips. It’s like having a tech expert on call!
• Get Creative: Perplexity AI isn’t just for finding informative answers. It can also help you brainstorm ideas, write stories, or even come up with funny jokes. Let your imagination run wild!

The possibilities are endless! The best part is that the more you use Perplexity AI, the better it gets at understanding what you need. It’s like having an AI tool that learns and grows with you. And if you really love it, you can always upgrade to Perplexity Pro to unlock even more features, like longer conversations with Copilot and the ability to ask more follow-up questions.

Tips and Tricks to Get the Most Out of Perplexity AI

Alright, now that you’ve got the hang of Perplexity AI’s superpowers, let’s level up your skills even further with these tips:

• Don’t be afraid to experiment! Perplexity AI is always evolving and adding new features. Don’t be shy about exploring all the different tools and options to see what works best for you. You might be surprised at what you discover!
• Share the love! Perplexity AI wants your feedback. If you have any suggestions or find something that doesn’t seem quite right, let them know. Your feedback helps them make Perplexity even better for everyone.
• Join the community: Perplexity AI has a community of users just like you who are eager to share their knowledge and experience. You can learn a lot from others and even discover new ways to use Perplexity AI. It’s also a great place to ask questions or get help if you need it.
• Ask it anything! Perplexity AI is designed to handle all kinds of user queries. Whether you need help with your homework, want to learn a new skill, or need a good laugh, don’t be afraid to ask. Perplexity AI is always ready to help!

By following these easy tips, you can truly unlock the full potential of Perplexity AI. It’s more than just a search engine – it’s your personal assistant, tutor, and knowledge hub all in one. So, what are you waiting for? Go out there and explore all that Perplexity offers!

Conclusion

By now, you’ve probably realized that Perplexity AI isn’t just another boring search engine. It’s a game-changer that can make your life easier, whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or just someone who loves to learn.

Perplexity AI is designed to be your partner in learning, helping you find the information you need quickly and easily. It’s like having a super-smart friend who’s always there to answer your questions, help you with your homework, or chat about something you’re curious about.

So why not give it a try? Head over to Perplexity AI and start exploring.

Ask a question, start a conversation with Copilot, or build your library of information with Collections. The possibilities are endless, and the more you use it, the more you’ll discover just how powerful and helpful this tool can be.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, have fun, and let Perplexity AI be your guide to a smarter, more informed you.

Frequently Asked Questions