Perplexity

Perplexity is an AI-powered answer engine that searches the web in real time and synthesizes information into clear, cited responses. It has become the go-to research tool for professionals who need answers backed by sources rather than a page of blue links.

• Real-time web search — Searches the live internet for every query, ensuring answers reflect the latest information
• Cited sources — Every claim includes inline citations linking to the original source for verification
• Focus modes — Target searches to academic papers, YouTube, Reddit, news, or the entire web
• Collections — Organize research threads into shareable collections for team collaboration
• File analysis — Upload PDFs, images, and documents for AI-powered analysis and Q&A
• Pro Search — Multi-step reasoning that asks clarifying questions and performs deeper research

Researchers use Perplexity to survey literature quickly with automatic source compilation. Analysts use it for competitive intelligence with real-time data. Students use it for study research with built-in citation tracking.

Perplexity's commitment to transparency through source citations sets it apart from other AI assistants. Try it at perplexity.ai.

1. Start using it at perplexity.ai or download the mobile app (iOS/Android) — no account required for basic searches
2. Sign in with Google, Apple, or email to save search history and create collections
3. Choose your plan:
   • Free — Unlimited Quick searches, 5 Pro searches/day, basic file uploads
   • Pro ($20/mo or $200/yr) — 600+ Pro searches/day, choose your model (GPT-4o, Claude, Gemini), unlimited file uploads, API access
4. Search effectively — Type natural language questions. Use Focus modes (Academic, Writing, YouTube, Reddit) to target specific sources
5. Use Pro Search — Toggle on Pro Search for complex questions requiring multi-step reasoning and deeper analysis
6. Organize research — Save threads to Collections and share them with collaborators via link