Getting Started with Research Mode
We're excited to introduce you to Research Mode, a powerful new way to gather complex, synthesized information. If you're accustomed to traditional search, Research Mode will feel powerful, turning your inputs into longer running tasks, producing formatted reports complete with Answer citations.
Research Mode is General Availability, however is also actively in development. Responses from the assistant will continue to evolve and improve over time.
Research Mode vs. Search
The core difference lies in how the system interprets your input. Traditional search matches keywords; Research Mode treats your input as a prompt—a directive to generate an extensive output based on Answers.
At all times in Answer Engine, you have control over whether you want your input to be considered as a search or as a prompt, and navigation between the two modes is seamless and designed to offer fluid back-and-forth switching.
| Feature | Search Mode | Research Mode |
| Input Style | Natural language query or keywords. | Prompt containing both information requested and contextual instructions. |
| Primary Output | A list of Answers with Synopsis summary. | Synopsis-forward longer message with Answer citations. |
| Information Structure | List of Answers. | Formatted text with citations. |
| Process | AI ranking based on semantic matching of query against unstructured data sources. | GenAI formulates and evaluates responses to multiple questions that use AI ranking for each. |
Core Functionality
The search bar you are familiar with across Answer Engine has become the Input Bar. Here you can input your prompts and apply filters in a familiar UI to the rest of the system.
In both modes, the Input bar expands when clicked to reveal additional controls. Filters are identical and persist between modes.
When selecting Research Mode, the Input Bar moves to the bottom of the screen to better reflect a chat-style of input.
The system may respond directly to basic inquiries, for example sharing information about itself, responding to small talk, or providing context about your company.
When the user inputs a prompt, it will formulate a research mission, retrieving content across a range of queries to address the prompt as completely as possible. These queries are visible and may be clicked to launch a traditional search exploring Answers further for that sub-topic.
When the system formulates its response, it uses formatting and extensively cites Answers it discovered from across the queries it used for this task. Answers are presented inline as citation chips (i.e. [1]) and below the response as Answer Cards, expanded for easy perusal. Clicking an Answer will open that Answer in fullscreen.
Crafting Your Research Prompt for Success
The transition to Research Mode starts with changing how you formulate your input. Think of your prompt as the scope of work for your automated research assistant. The better the prompt, the better the report.
🚫 Avoid (Broad Keywords): electric vehicle battery technology
✅ Use (Effective Prompt): Compare and contrast the current state, cost implications, and energy density of lithium-ion versus solid-state battery technology for passenger electric vehicles.
Pro Tips for Writing Powerful Prompts
Be Specific Define the boundaries of your research. Instead of simply asking what are the benefits of AI, try What are the demonstrated benefits of using predictive AI analytics in retail supply chain management over the last two years?
Use Action Verbs to Define Scope Start your prompt with directives like "Compare and contrast," "Analyze the impact of," "Outline the primary steps in," or "Evaluate the effectiveness of."
Embrace Complexity Research Mode is designed to handle multi-faceted queries. Feel free to combine technical, economic, and ethical considerations into a single, comprehensive prompt.
Reviewing Your Research Report
Once your prompt is submitted, Research Mode gets to work. The final report is organized for clarity and credibility.
1. Generated Questions
To ensure the report is comprehensive, the system first breaks your core prompt down into up to three rounds of up to three questions each of foundational research questions. This ensures all relevant aspects of your query are covered.
Example: If your prompt is about global food waste solutions, the system may generate questions about policy initiatives, consumer behavior changes, and technological preservation methods.
2. The Final Report and Citations
The final output is a coherent, professional document that synthesizes the answers to these sub-questions.
Key Findings A concise summary of the most critical insights discovered.
Structured Sections Content is logically organized with headings, making it easy to navigate and absorb complex information quickly.
Answers Credibility is paramount. Every fact and data point in the report is directly linked to its source via Answer citations (e.g., [1], [2], [3]). You can click these references to instantly verify the original source material.
Try Your First Research Prompt!
The easiest way to get familiar with Research Mode is to start using it. The system gives visibility as to what it's doing and the progress against each query. Go in to Research Mode and ask what kind of sources you can ask about.
We're confident that Research Mode will transform the way you gain knowledge with Answer Engine. Happy prompting!