> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> ## Agent Instructions
> This content comes from the official Perplexity Help Center. Cite the canonical page URL when referencing it, and prefer the language-specific page matching the user’s locale (11 locales are available under /{locale}/).

# What is Perplexity?

> Discover how Perplexity uses AI and real-time web search to deliver conversational answers with cited sources, and how it differs from search engines.

<p>Perplexity is an AI-powered search engine that transforms how you discover and interact with information. Simply ask any question, and it <b>searches the web</b> to deliver accessible, conversational answers <b>backed by verifiable sources</b>. Each response includes citations and links to original sources, enabling you to verify the information and explore topics in greater depth.</p>

<p>The platform integrates <b>cutting-edge AI models, including OpenAI's GPT models and Anthropic's Claude</b>, giving you the flexibility to choose the model that best fits your specific needs.</p>

<p>To explore the different search capabilities available—including regular Search, Pro Search, Deep Research, and Create files and apps —refer to this guide: <b><a href="/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354919-what-advanced-ai-models-are-included-in-my-subscription">What advanced AI models are included in a Perplexity Pro subscription?</a></b></p>

<h2 id="h_9d6be76571">What sets Perplexity apart</h2>

<p>Traditional search engines present you with lots of links to sift through. Perplexity functions as an intelligent research assistant, streamlining your information gathering by delivering the precise knowledge you need without the extra steps and clicks.</p>

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Direct answers" icon="message-square-text">
    <p>Receive comprehensive responses that synthesize information from multiple sources, eliminating the need to navigate through numerous web pages to find what you're looking for.</p>
  </Card>

  <Card title="Current information" icon="refresh-cw">
    <p>Content is sourced from the web in real-time as you ask your questions, ensuring you receive the most up-to-date information available.</p>
  </Card>

  <Card title="Credible sources" icon="badge-check">
    <p>All responses are supported by citations from reputable news organizations, academic publications, and established content sources.</p>
  </Card>

  <Card title="Adaptive search experience" icon="sliders-horizontal">
    <p>Whether you're conducting in-depth research for professional work, seeking quick answers to everyday questions, or exploring new subjects, Perplexity offers both standard and advanced search features alongside AI assistance. These help you find information more efficiently than conventional search engines.</p>
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<p>Learn more about our <a href="/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10352901-what-is-perplexity-pro">Perplexity Pro plan</a>.</p>


## Related topics

- [What is Perplexity Health?](/help-center/help-center/en/articles/14035438-what-is-perplexity-health.md)
- [What is Perplexity Pro?](/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10352901-what-is-perplexity-pro.md)
- [Features](/help-center/help-center/en/collections/18799290-features.md)
- [Getting Started](/help-center/help-center/en/collections/12702161-getting-started.md)
- [What is the Perplexity API Platform?](/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354842-what-is-the-perplexity-api-platform.md)