Perplexity’s “hidden” features include Focus modes, a model picker, context-aware follow-ups, numbered citations, source comparison prompts, shopping comparisons, timelines and charts, audience-specific rewrites, research collaboration prompts, and asking it to show uncertainty. Together they make Perplexity a faster, more trustworthy research companion than simple AI search.

The quick upgrade: go beyond the search bar

Perplexity is more than a tidy AI answer with a few links. Used deliberately, it becomes a research partner that cites sources, contrasts viewpoints, and outputs timelines, charts and buyer’s guides. Here are ten features Tom’s Guide recommends — plus prompts to try today.

1) Focus modes change how answers are generated

Under the search bar sit topic shortcuts such as Parenting, Travel, Health, Web, Academic, Writing and Math. These presets influence source selection, tone and structure before you even type. Try: “Academic focus — explain CRISPR’s key milestones and cite primary literature.”

2) Pick the model for the job

Use the model picker to switch between faster responses, deeper reasoning or more natural prose — citations remain intact. If replies feel shallow or verbose, change model rather than re-prompt. Try: “Switch to your deepest-reasoning model. Compare three theories on X with pros/cons and citations.”

3) Lean on follow-ups — context is remembered

Perplexity threads your conversation, so refinements build on prior context. Try: Start broad (“What are UK heat pump incentives in 2026?”), then follow with “Narrow to SMEs in the North West and add links to grant pages.”

4) Clickable, numbered citations for trust

Each claim links to a source. Use this to verify quickly, spot bias, and capture references for slides or client memos. Pro tip: ask for only primary sources or latest official statistics. Try: “Summarise with numbered citations to government or regulator sources only.”

5) Don’t just summarise — compare sources

A powerful move: ask Perplexity to analyse its own sources to surface disagreements and bias. Try: “Across your sources, what do experts disagree on, and why? Highlight outliers and methodological issues.”

6) Use it as a shopping comparison engine

Ask it to weigh specs, pricing and recent reviews across multiple outlets, with citations to check each claim. Try: “Best 14-inch laptops for video editing under £1,400 — compare display, RAM, ports and UK availability. Cite every spec.”

7) Ask for timelines or charts

For complex topics, timelines and simple charts beat walls of text. Try: “Timeline of EU AI policy milestones since 2020 — include links to the actual texts.”

8) Rewrite for audience and tone

Perplexity can re-explain the same idea for a child, beginner or specialist without losing fidelity. Try: “Rewrite this for an exec briefing (150 words), then a staff handbook (plain English), both with sources.”

9) Treat it like a collaborator

Ask for gaps, angles and questions you’re missing — not just answers. Try: “What am I not asking about deploying BYOD securely in a UK NHS Trust? Provide a checklist with citations.”

10) Ask it to show uncertainty

Push it to flag weak evidence, open questions and contested claims — ideal for risk notes and appendices. Try: “Where is evidence weak or outdated in your answer? Mark ‘LOW CONFIDENCE’ with links.”

Practical workflows for teams

• Analyst packs: Run Focus: Academic → model picker to “reasoning” → ask for disagreements → export references.

• Buyer’s guides: Use shopping comparison → insist on review dates within the last 90 days → ask for spec table with sources.

• Policy tracking: Generate a timeline → request official text links → ask for a one-page exec summary.

Bottom line: These ten features help you trade guesswork for verifiable, citation-first answers and cleaner deliverables — the difference between an AI answer and a defensible recommendation.

FAQ

Q1. Where do I find Focus modes in Perplexity?
Under the search bar — tap a topic like Web, Academic or Writing to change sources and structure.

Q2. What’s the model picker for?
To choose the AI model that powers the answer (speed, reasoning, or writing style) while keeping citation-first outputs.

Q3. How do I compare sources rather than blend them?
Ask: “What do these sources disagree on?” or “Which source is most critical, and why?” to surface contrasts and bias.

Q4. Can Perplexity help with shopping decisions?
Yes — it can summarise specs, prices and reviews with citations so you can verify before buying.

Q5. How do I get timelines or charts?
Ask explicitly: “Give me a timeline of X with key milestones and links,” or request a simple chart of changes over time.