How do you use Perplexity?
To use Perplexity, create an account on the official site, then type your request in plain language and refine the result. Perplexity is freemium, so you can start for free. Here's the complete walkthrough.
Step 1: Get started with Perplexity
Head to the official Perplexity site and sign up. The free tier is enough to learn the basics before upgrading.
Step 2: Your first task
Type a clear, specific request. The more context you provide, the better Perplexity's output.
Step 3: Use the key features
- Real-time web search with inline citations
- Focus modes (academic, video, social, writing)
- File and document analysis
- Multiple frontier models on Pro
Step 4: Tips for better results
- Be specific — context and detail dramatically improve output.
- Iterate — refine with follow-ups instead of starting over.
- Explore Perplexity's advanced features once you're comfortable.
- Verify important output before relying on it.
The bottom line
Perplexity is approachable once you understand the basics. Start simple, iterate, and explore its features. For a deeper look at pricing and pros and cons, read our full Perplexity review.
Ready to go deeper?
Explore AI ChatbotsFrequently Asked Questions
Is Perplexity free to use?
Perplexity is freemium. You can start for free; paid plans begin at $0.
Is Perplexity easy to learn?
Yes. Most people get useful results from Perplexity within minutes by starting with simple inputs and refining from there.
Is Perplexity better than ChatGPT for research?
For factual research and current events, Perplexity's cited, real-time answers are often more trustworthy. ChatGPT is more flexible for creative and open-ended tasks.
