Home › Answers › Getting started with AI

How do I use Perplexity AI?

Last checked: 18 October 2026 · The AI Till, UK

Getting started

1. Open perplexity.ai or install the app. On Windows, it is available as a desktop app.
2. Ask a full question, such as "What is the VAT threshold in the UK in 2026?"
3. Click the sources to check the answer.
4. Ask follow-ups in the same thread.
5. Sign in to save your history and use Spaces to group research.

Tips for better answers

• Ask for UK sources: "Use GOV.UK and HMRC sources only."
• Ask for a table when comparing suppliers or prices.
• Use Deep Research for longer reports, then check the key facts.
• Upload a PDF to ask questions about it.

Free or Pro?

The free plan handles most quick searches. Pro suits people doing a lot of research or wanting a choice of AI models. See how much is Perplexity Pro? and how to cancel Perplexity Pro.

Privacy

Perplexity may use your searches to improve its service unless you change the setting. See is Perplexity private?

Related questions

Is Perplexity better than ChatGPT?

For quick sourced research, many people prefer it. ChatGPT is stronger for writing and files. See which AI is best for research?

Can I use Perplexity on Windows 11?

Yes. Download the Windows app from Perplexity's site, or use it in any browser.

Who owns Perplexity?

It is an independent US company. See who owns Perplexity?

Sources

• Perplexity: pricing
• Perplexity: downloads
• Perplexity Help Center

Checked 18 October 2026. Rules and prices change, so check the source before you rely on it. This is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice.

More on getting started with ai

• Are AI chatbots dangerous?
• Can AI analyse a video?
• Can AI compare two documents?
• Can AI help me write a book?
• Can AI proofread a document?
• Can ChatGPT be used for business?

All getting started with ai answers · All answers · Guides · AI tools directory