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 reliable research companion than a simple AI search.

The quick upgrade: reach beyond the search bar

Perplexity is more than a neat AI answer with a few links. Used thoughtfully, it becomes a research partner that cites sources, contrasts viewpoints, and generates timelines, charts and buyer’s guides. Here are ten features recommended by Tom’s Guide — along with prompts to try today.

1) Focus modes adjust how answers are generated

Beneath the search bar, you'll find topic shortcuts like Parenting, Travel, Health, Web, Academic, Writing, and Math. These presets influence source selection, tone, and structure before you even begin typing. Try: “Academic focus — explain CRISPR’s key milestones and cite primary literature.”

2) Select the appropriate model for the task

Use the model picker to toggle between faster responses, deeper reasoning, or more natural prose — citations stay intact. If responses seem too shallow or verbose, change the model instead of re-prompting. Try: “Switch to your deep reasoning model. Compare three theories on X with pros/cons and citations.”

3) Utilize follow-ups — context is retained

Perplexity threads your conversation, allowing refinements that build on previous context. Try: Start broadly (“What are Canadian heat pump incentives in 2026?”), then follow up with “Narrow it down to SMEs in Ontario and include links to grant pages.”

4) Clickable, numbered citations for trustworthiness

Each claim is linked to a source. Use this to swiftly verify, identify bias, and gather references for presentations or memos. Pro tip: request only primary sources or the latest official statistics. Try: “Summarize with numbered citations to government or regulator sources only.”

5) Don't just summarize — compare sources

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

6) Use it as a shopping comparison tool

Have it weigh specs, pricing, and recent reviews across different outlets, with citations to verify each claim. Try: “Best 14-inch laptops for video editing under $1,800 — compare display, RAM, ports and Canadian availability. Cite each spec.”

7) Request timelines or charts

For complex topics, timelines and simple charts surpass text-heavy explanations. Try: “Create a timeline of Canadian AI policy milestones since 2020 — include links to the actual texts.”

8) Rewrite for the audience and tone

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

9) Use it as a collaborator

Ask for gaps, angles, and questions you’ve overlooked — not just answers. Try: “What am I not asking about deploying BYOD securely in a Canadian healthcare setting? Provide a checklist with citations.”

10) Encourage it to show uncertainty

Urge it to point out weak evidence, open questions, and contested claims — perfect 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 → request a spec table with sources.

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

Bottom line: These ten features help you trade guesswork for verifiable, citation-first answers and clearer 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 — click on a topic like Web, Academic, or Writing to alter sources and structure.

Q2. What’s the model picker for?
To choose the AI model that generates the answer (speed, reasoning, or writing style) while maintaining 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 illuminate contrasts and bias.

Q4. Can Perplexity assist with shopping decisions?
Yes — it can summarize specs, prices, and reviews with citations, enabling verification before purchase.

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