Perplexity AI is one of the most useful research tools available — it searches the web in real time and gives you sourced, up-to-date answers rather than information from a training cutoff. This guide shows you how to use it to research any topic quickly and reliably.
What you will need
A free Perplexity account at perplexity.ai. Unlike ChatGPT, Perplexity searches the web in real time — which means its information is current, and it cites its sources.
1
Ask your first research question
Perplexity works best when you ask clear, specific questions rather than vague searches.
📋 Example prompt — copy and paste this
What are the current superannuation contribution caps in Australia for the 2025-26 financial year, and what changes have been announced for 2026-27?
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Notice that Perplexity will show you the sources it used. Always check these before relying on the information for important decisions.
2
Go deeper on any topic
Perplexity's follow-up conversation feature lets you dig into any aspect of a topic.
📋 Example prompt — copy and paste this
Can you explain the carry-forward concessional contributions rule in more detail and give me a practical example of how an Australian over 50 might use it?
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Perplexity remembers the context of your conversation, so you can keep asking follow-up questions without repeating background each time.
3
Verify information you've found elsewhere
Use Perplexity to fact-check claims you've seen in articles, social media or conversations.
📋 Example prompt — copy and paste this
I've seen a claim that [specific claim — e.g. "Australians can access their super tax-free from age 60"]. Is this accurate? What are the conditions and any exceptions I should know about? Please cite the relevant ATO or government sources.
4
Compare options and get a summary
Perplexity is excellent at comparing multiple options and synthesising information.
📋 Example prompt — copy and paste this
Compare the top three industry superannuation funds in Australia by net returns over 10 years, fees, and member services as of the most recent data available. Provide a brief summary of what each fund does well and any weaknesses noted in independent reviews.