AI WORLDGetting started with Perplexity for answers that show their sources
Learn how to use this AI-powered search tool to find reliable information with clear, clickable source links.
Imagine searching the web and getting a single, beautifully written answer that directly answers your question, while also showing you exactly which websites the information came from. This guide will show you how to use Perplexity, a tool designed to make researching, shopping, and learning online faster and much more reliable.
- An internet connection: You can use Perplexity on any computer, tablet, or smartphone.
- No account required to start: You can use the basic features straight away without signing up, though creating a free account lets you save your search history.
Visit the homepage
Open your web browser and navigate to the Perplexity website.
Perplexity is an AI search engine (a tool that uses artificial intelligence to scan the live internet, read dozens of websites in seconds, and summarise the findings for you, rather than just giving you a list of blue links). When the page loads, you will see a clean screen with a prominent search bar in the centre.
Ask a complete question
Unlike traditional search engines where you type short keywords like "best vacuum cleaner", Perplexity works best when you talk to it naturally.
Type your prompt (the instruction or question you give to an AI) as if you were speaking to a helpful research assistant.
Follow the trail of sources
Once you press enter, Perplexity will search the web and write an answer.
As you read the response, you will notice small, numbered brackets next to the facts (like [1] or [2]). These are citations (clickable links that show the exact website the AI used to find that piece of information).
At the very top of the answer, you will also see a visual row of source cards. This transparency is a brilliant way to protect against hallucinations (a term for when an AI confidently makes up incorrect facts).
Ask a follow-up question
One of the best features of Perplexity is that you do not have to start a new search if you want more details. You can simply have a conversation.
The tool remembers what you have already asked in this specific chat.
"Which of those options have hot showers?"
Perplexity will filter the previous list and give you the updated answer instantly, still showing the sources.
Use Focus mode for specific tasks
Before you type a question, look for a button near the search bar labelled Focus. This button allows you to narrow down where the AI looks for information.
By default, it searches the entire internet, but you can change this to search only academic papers, only YouTube videos, or even turn off internet search entirely if you just want to write a creative story.
"How to change a tyre on a mountain bike"
Perplexity will summarise the steps and link you directly to the exact moments in the video tutorials.
- Treating it like old-school search: Avoid typing single words. Give the AI context. Instead of "baking recipes", try "I have eggs, flour, and lemons. What can I bake in under 30 minutes?"
- Skipping the source verification: While the AI is highly accurate, it is always wise to click on one or two of the citations for highly important decisions (like medical or financial details) to ensure the source website is reputable.
- Forgetting to specify your location: Because Perplexity searches the global web, it might assume you are in another country if you ask for "local lawnmower repair shops". Always add your city or suburb to the prompt.
Open a new browser tab and go to perplexity.ai. In the search bar, type:
"What are three unique, indoor activities to do in Melbourne on a rainy afternoon?"
Press enter, read the summary, and click on one of the numbered source links at the top to see the original website.
✦ Original step-by-step guide by AI World Co.'s AI editorial team. Written in plain language, reviewed for accuracy.
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