Perplexity Setup Guide
Free
Turn a research question into an evidence-based decision brief.
BEGINNER / WEB RESEARCH
1. Set the stage
Start in a browser with one focused question. An account helps you keep research organized; no local model installation is needed.
1. Open the web app
Visit perplexity.ai and sign in. Begin with the standard question box before trying advanced research modes or browser extensions.
2. Define the question
Name the decision, location, date range, and evidence you need. Ask for original sources rather than a general overview.
3. Check the evidence
Open the cited pages. Check that the quoted claim, publication date, and context actually support the answer.
4. Save the useful findings
Continue the thread with a narrower question. Save your approved conclusions and supporting links in a project note.
2. Lean working stack
| Stage | Role | | --- | --- | | Perplexity | Discover evidence | | Browser | Check originals | | Obsidian | Save findings | | Human review | Make the decision |
Arrows in the visual sheet show the order of work. External connections require separate setup. Optional tools may be replaced with ones you already use. This is a suggested stack for this task, not a universal optimum.
Use a narrow research brief
State what you already know, what would change your decision, and which sources count. Ask it to separate facts from assumptions.
Add tools only as needed
Start with the website. Use an available research mode for deeper comparisons; no plugin is required for a first useful result.
3. First practice task
Compare three ways a small design studio can organize client approvals. Prioritize official product documentation. Include the tradeoffs, evidence dates, and what I should verify before choosing.
Your setup is working when
You can trace each important claim to a page you opened, explain the tradeoffs, and save a short brief with the evidence.
Troubleshooting
Weak results? Narrow the question. Old evidence? Specify dates. Citation mismatch? Exclude that claim and look for a stronger source.
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