Banner Health FAQs

Yes, Perplexity is a free generative AI tool available on the open web. The free version is available to anyone with an internet connection. There are subscription "premium" versions available for a fee. The library does not "subscribe" to Perplexity, per say. 

Pro tips for using Perplexity:

• Use it to find background information on many topics quickly 
• Brainstorm search terms/concepts prior to doing a comprehensive search 
• Beneath the summary generated on y our topic, see "Related" for additional search permutations to target different information
• Ask follow-up questions! After all, generative AI is very conversational
• Exercise critical thinking skills: AI "hallucinations" are a thing and not all references are reliable. Sometimes. the generative text will cite different sources but draw the same conclusions or fabricate answers altogether!
• AI tools have strengths and limitations like any technology
• Be aware of the "training biases" present in AI training models
• Try this prompt: "How can I make my question more precise?" and see what you learn! 

If you'd like to learn more about generative AI tools, please contact your librarians! We can help you learn more about writing AI prompts, ethical considerations, and more!