Perplexity AI: 7 of the Best Everyday Ways to Use This LLM
Finding reliable, real-time information on the Internet quickly can be a challenge, even with the various virtual assistants available. This is where Perplexity AI wants to make its mark: by turning research into a more accessible and intuitive process for users. What’s different about Perplexity, and how can it enhance your routine tasks? Let’s find out.
What is Perplexity AI?
Perplexity AI is an innovative search engine that aims to redefine how users access and interact with information. Using advanced large language models (LLMs) such as GPT-4 and Claude, Perplexity excels in understanding user queries and delivering coherent, contextually relevant responses based on real-time information on the Internet. Unlike traditional search engines that simply provide a list of links, this AI tool synthesizes information from multiple sources and offers direct answers along with citations. This capability enhances the user experience and ensures that the information is credible and traceable, making it a valuable tool for research and learning.
One of the core strengths of Perplexity AI is its ability to engage in conversational interactions. After answering a prompt, the tool automatically suggests follow-up questions so users can refine their queries for more precise results. This dynamic approach sets it apart from other popular LLMs like ChatGPT and Gemini. Another advantage of this AI-powered research assistant is the ability to manage the sources it uses. You can view the complete list of sources for each answer Perplexity gives, and you can delete sources you don’t want. The platform will then reformulate its response to exclude those sources.
Aside from its dual search options—Quick Search for straightforward queries and Pro Search for more complex needs—Perplexity AI offers Focus modes to further streamline your search. For example, you can ask it to search exclusively for academic sources, or offer only video results. By combining the functionalities of a search engine with the conversational abilities of a chatbot, Perplexity AI has positioned itself as a powerful and versatile research assistant not only for academics and work, but also for everyday life.
How to Maximize Perplexity AI in Your Day-to-Day Life
We’ve given you an overview of Perplexity AI’s capabilities. Let’s now explore its real-world benefits. Here are seven of the best everyday use cases for this AI-powered search engine.
1. Learning and Education
For students, Perplexity AI can serve as a personalized learning assistant that can simplify complex topics and provide clear explanations, all based on multiple sources you can easily view and verify. You can ask the tool to break down a lesson into digestible parts, or even create quizzes and study guides based on the topics you’re learning. Educators can use Perplexity to create lesson plans or find supplementary materials that align with their curriculum. Beyond the academic sphere, Perplexity AI can be very helpful for learning, whether you’re doing research for work or wanting to understand a subject matter you’re curious about.
2. News and Current Trends
Keeping abreast of current events around the world can be overwhelming given the sheer volume of information available. Perplexity AI streamlines this process by summarizing news articles, highlighting key points, and providing context for ongoing stories. Users can ask about specific topics or events, and Perplexity will deliver concise updates, making it easier to stay informed without sifting through numerous articles. This capability can be especially beneficial for professionals who need to be aware of industry trends or global developments relevant to their work. If you’re particular about your news sources, the “View Sources” functionality comes in handy here, as you can customize it to a degree by asking Perplexity to remove one or more of the websites it used.
3. Fact-Checking Information
Misinformation can spread rapidly on the Internet, especially with social media. Perplexity AI can be a useful fact-checking resource where you can input claims or statements you want to verify. The AI tool then pulls information from credible sources and provides citations. This feature is particularly useful for journalists, researchers, and anyone engaged in public discourse, as it helps ensure that the information being shared is factual and trustworthy. By cross-referencing multiple sources, Perplexity can help users discern fact from fiction, promoting informed discussions and decisions.
4. Skill Development
Perplexity AI is an excellent tool for those looking to develop new skills or hobbies. Whether you aim to master a new language, perfect your golf swing, or learn a musical instrument, the AI-enhanced search engine can provide essential tools and guidance. It can round up online courses, books, and videos tailored to your interests and skill level, or give you quizzes and practice exercises. Quick and easy access to these personalized resources can empower users to track their progress and accelerate their skill acquisition.
5. Travel Planning
Planning a trip can be daunting, but Perplexity AI simplifies the process by providing comprehensive travel recommendations. You can ask about destinations, accommodations, activities, and local cuisine, and Perplexity will compile relevant data to help you make informed decisions. It can suggest itineraries based on your preferences and budget. The AI tool can also provide real-time updates on travel restrictions or safety guidelines, since it performs a live search whenever you input a query. With all these capabilities, Perplexity can assist you in making the most of your vacation.
6. Home Improvement
For homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, Perplexity AI can be a valuable resource for home improvement projects. It can provide step-by-step guides, material lists, and tips from experienced professionals when you ask about specific repairs, renovations, or design ideas. You can set the Focus mode to Video so the AI tool can give you video tutorials that will walk you through a project. Whether you’re tackling a simple painting job or a more complex renovation, Perplexity can help you navigate the process efficiently. It can also suggest tools and techniques that may enhance the outcome of your DIY project or save you time and money.
7. Health and Wellness
Perplexity AI can support users in their health and wellness journeys by offering research-backed advice on nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being. For instance, you can ask the tool for meal plans, workout routines, or tips for managing stress. Additionally, Perplexity can help users understand medical terms and conditions so it’s easier to navigate health-related information. While it’s essential to consult healthcare professionals for serious concerns, the AI platform can offer general recommendations and resources to aid you in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Overall, Perplexity AI’s unique strengths make it a great tool for enhancing your academic research, offering assistance with personal and professional tasks, and fueling your curiosity about the world. To make the most of Perplexity and other AI-powered tech, switch to a future-ready AI laptop like the Acer Swift X 14. It’s designed to handle the heavier workloads of assorted AI platforms without compromising speed and performance.
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About Micah Sulit: Micah is a writer and editor with a focus on lifestyle topics like tech, wellness, and travel. She loves writing while sipping an iced mocha in a cafe, preferably one in a foreign city. She's based in Manila, Philippines.
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