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 simple query into a longer, formatted report complete with citations.
Research Mode is in Early Access. You may encounter errors or missing functionality as we continue to develop this capability. Functionality will change dramatically as we continue to iterate and improve.
Research Mode vs. Search
The core difference lies in how we interpret your input. Traditional search matches keywords; Research Mode treats your input as a prompt—a directive to generate a structured output based on Answers.
| Feature | Search | 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 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.
The system can respond to general knowledge, such as addressing it's own capabilities or what content is available.
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 query. 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 (0–5)
To ensure the report is comprehensive, the system first breaks your core prompt down into 0–5 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!