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An Introduction

An overview of the main features of PP.

Tags:
WHERNTO: erudite  techniq 

image of An Introduction

This page provides a simple introduction to perplexity as well as some resources that can be consulted to get a good idea of what this aibot can do.

What is perplexity?

Definition: A conversational search engine that answers queries using natural language predictive text, utilizing sources from the web.
Launch Date: 2022
Technology Base: Based on OpenAI's GPT-3.5 model and a standalone LLM with NLP capabilities for its free product. Pro version accesses GPT-4, Claude 2, and others.

Perplexity is not its own AI engine but rather a platform that provides access to advanced AI models from OpenAI and Anthropic, such as GPT-4 Turbo and Claude 3 Sonnet and Opus. It is designed to enhance search capabilities and generate accurate answers by utilizing these state-of-the-art models. Perplexity Pro (PP) offers a more comprehensive and organized search experience compared to traditional AI chatbots, allowing users to sort queries and access a variety of models for different needs.

Layout

The core features are listed below and are essential to know well in order to use PP effectively. They also form the primary structure of the Perplexity website composed of the 3 units described below.

Search box

This is the starting point for PP where you can "ask anything"! The results are returned with the links to the pages PP used to get information. The search can be quick or pro (as described below), but PP says that its quick search is better than the regular perplexity's pro search.

Searches can be customized in the following ways:

  • Quick provides fast, basic answers. There is no limit to the number of these you can enter.
  • Pro engages in a conversation, asks clarifying questions, and delivers more detailed results. These also show specifics of the search process such as what is being searched for or created. For instance, when requested to design a tutorial to learn PP, the pro search listed the following:

    • Search for a comprehensive overview of PP features and functionality
    • Find or create tutorials focused on using PP effectively
    • Look for exercises or practical tasks related to using PP
  • Focus allows the search to take place in directed venues (as opposed to the default entire web) such as

    • Academic papers
    • Math to solve complex problems (integrating with Wolfram Alpha)
    • Social network discussions
    • Writing creatively without going to the internet
    • Video on topic requested
  • Attach allows uploading of documents in various format that will used to answer your question

A cautionary note about searching is to be very specific otherwise the search will become generalized. For instance, if we want to find out about the 'Convert to Page' feature in PP (even within a thread about PP), don't just ask to know what 'Convert to Page' does, because you will get a comprehensive answer like

The term "convert to page" typically refers to the process of changing the format or type of a webpage or document. This can be relevant in different contexts, such as content management systems or file conversion tools. [considerable detail follows!]

Unfortunately, there is no efficient mechanism (yet!) for editing the thread itself so you are stuck with your well-meaning question and the unwanted answer. You can, however, always delete the very last item in your thread.

Discover

This is an interesting area where PP explores various topics as directed by certain users. There is a wide variety of selections at the top of the page such as:

  • For You (Personalize Discover with top right corner button)
  • Top (high general interest)
  • Tech & Science
  • Finance
  • Entertainment
  • Arts & Culture
  • Sports

Items can be bookmarked for easy access.

Library

This area contains all your interactions with PP. There are 4 components to be aware of:

Prompt

This is the rudimentary component to work with. You ask for something with a prompt, and receive an answer. Prompts can be edited using the ellipsis at the bottom of each answer. The last prompt result can be deleted. Prompts should be intelligently designed to obtain the best results. Every prompt/answer has buttons at the bottom to

  • Share (copies link to entire thread while pretending to take you to specific place)
  • Rewrite (gives option for LLM to employ)
  • Copy (in markdown format)
  • Edit the prompt (ask the question differently)
  • View sources using the ellipsis dropdown (lists sources used for prompt with removal option)

Thread

It is a series of prompts with answers and is created whenever you ask a question (or click the Thread+ button at the top). It is possible to share a thread for viewing purposes through its unique url by clicking the Share button at top right corner (or the redundant copy link button beside it). A thread can be retitled by clicking at the top where your initial question is written. A thread can be deleted by using the ellipsis dropdown at the top. Threads can also be exported with[out] citations. At present, there is no bulk delete each thread must be deleted individually. WARNING: Use awareness if you are planning on using the 'Delete all threads' option, because you will lose everything and never get it back! This option appears in the ellipsis dropdown on the Library page.

Collection

When a group of threads have a common theme, they can be gathered together akin to the way folders/directories are a group of files. Collections are not like tags because you can put a thread only into one collection. There is also a noname collection called Bookmarks. It is possible to swap a thread into a different collection. A collection can be shared by its own unique link for viewing or collaboration. Collections are created/deleted by name. Deleting a collection does not delete the threads in that collection though (so you can't do a bulk delete).

Page

This item can be generated from a thread using the 'Convert to Page' button (top right corner). It can be created independent of a thread as well by clicking the Page+ button at the top. This feature is part of the Perplexity Pages tool, which is designed to help users create visually appealing articles or reports from their research or search results. The button will take pertinent aspects of your thread and organize it into sections. You can even add/generate media such as images to parts of the page! You can keep previewing the page, and eventually publish it. The published page will have its unique link.

By converting a thread into a page, you can present your research or findings in a more polished and organized manner. This is particularly useful for creating content that is meant to be shared with others, such as reports, articles, or guides. Web designers can also use this feature to assist in creation webpages.

The page can be customized by adding/deleting/moving sections, editing section headings, inserting media into sections, and adjusting the layout. It is similar to a rudimentary webpage designing application, but with some AI working on your behalf! For instance, if you add a section, you are given options on its design as well as some suggestions on what the section should be based on the content in its vicinity! For instance, adding a section just under the 'Convert to Page Feature', PP suggested that it could be one of the following:

  • Exploring PP's AI models
  • Customizing PP pages for SEO
  • Collaborative Features in PP

Choosing the middle one, PP entered into the page a process to implement with reference links!

Perplexity Pages offer significant potential for SEO optimization when customized effectively. To maximize SEO benefits, start by identifying low-competition keywords with high potential using tools like Perplexity AI's keyword research capabilities. When creating content, focus on generating comprehensive, well-structured articles that address user intent and include relevant headings, subheadings, and optimized meta descriptions. Utilize Perplexity's AI-powered content generation to create an initial draft, then refine and expand the content to improve its quality and relevance. Incorporate internal and external links to authoritative sources, and optimize images with descriptive alt text. Regular updates and the addition of fresh, relevant content can help maintain and improve search rankings over time. While Perplexity Pages are gaining visibility in search results, it's crucial to ensure the content provides genuine value and accuracy to align with Google's quality guidelines.

Process

A good sequence to follow whenever doing research is to:

  • start a thread to get/discuss/analyse information
  • enter it into a collection
  • turn it into a page if you want to summarize/present it
  • share the link to the thread/page if you want others to see it
  • share the link to the collection if you want others to collaborate

Miscellaneous Matters

API Credits

PP provides $5 monthly in API credits, allowing users to access the latest open-source LLMs and embed AI-powered search into their own projects.

Discord Channel and Exclusive Support

PP subscribers have access to a dedicated Discord channel and exclusive support channels, including Intercom support, with prioritized responses within 1 to 2 business days.

Referrals

PP offers a referral program with a cap of $10 per billing cycle, allowing users to earn credits by referring others.

Switching Between Models

Users can switch between different AI models within their settings or directly within a thread by clicking the Rewrite button.