Hey friends,
Most mornings, I’ll start with a burning question that’s been sitting in the back of my mind.
Usually about something AI related (surprise surprise).
The kind of question that would normally send me down a Google rabbit hole, thirty tabs deep, half of them filled with useless ads.
But now, 95% of the time I use Perplexity AI.
And instead of endless scrolling, I get what I actually need. A clear, sourced answer, built from real context.
AI powered search doesn’t even feel like searching anymore. It feels like getting sh*t done! Imagine having a conversation with the internet — that’s what Perplexity AI feels like to me.
Perplexity AI is free for anyone to try, and even better with a Pro subscription (keep reading to get 12 months PRO for free).
Just recently, it even helped me research and select a health insurance provider, without opening a single PDF — all in a few seconds.
I’m surprised it’s taken me this long to write about it — but maybe that’s perfect timing.
Perplexity in October 2025 feels mature, useful, and genuinely built to provide trusted answers.
This episode kicks off a three-part deep dive into Perplexity — starting with how its AI search works and why it’s reshaping how I find information.
🧠 What Is Perplexity AI Search?
At its core, Perplexity is an AI‑powered answer engine.
It combines real‑time web search with AI to deliver concise, referenced answers.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Quick vs. Pro vs. Reasoning vs. Deep Research Modes: I mostly use the Pro mode
- Multiple AI Models: Pro users can switch between multiple models like GPT‑5, Claude Sonnet 4.5, and Gemini 2.5 Pro and reasoning models
- Labs: A new feature that creates reports, spreadsheets, dashboards, and even simple web apps
- Spaces: Organize your research in Spaces by project or topic. Invite collaborators, control privacy, and upload files
- Personalization: Adjust language, tone, and output format in your settings
- Mobile Apps: Perplexity’s iOS and Android apps offer a great experience while on the go
In short: Perplexity isn’t just a search bar.
It’s a suite of modes, models, and tools that treat your search like a mini research project.
✨ 4 Use Cases You Can Start With Today
✅ Competitor Insights in Minutes
Last quarter I needed to compare and analyse AI agent building platforms. I asked Perplexity:
“Provide the current competitive landscape for AI agent platforms in 2025, highlighting recent trends, market shifts, and what [specific competitor] is doing differently.”
Within seconds, it delivered an in depth report for each competitor. I felt like I’d hired a market analyst.
✅ Step-by-Step Tutorials, Tailored To You
I needed to set up custom Slack workflows with tags, automations, and reminders, but tutorials online are all fragmented. So I asked Perplexity:
“Give me a full step-by-step tutorial to set up auto-tagging in Slack using workflows, with screenshots and common issues to avoid.”
Perplexity pulled together the best steps from multiple sources, merged into a coherent guide I could follow immediately. No bouncing between half-complete articles or messy screenshots.
✅ Smart Shopping, Without the Chaos
Last week I realized it was time to upgrade my tired vacuum. I typed into Perplexity:
“Compare Dyson V15 Detect, Gen5 Detect, and V11: specs, real user reviews, pricing, and which is best for a home with both mostly hardwood ”
Seconds later, I got a sharp breakdown: suction power, battery life, pros/cons for pets, current deals. Perplexity gets right to the point. If this was Google, I’d be overwhelmed with ads nearly all day 😅
✅ Tech Issues Solved Fast
I hit a weird API error connecting Zapier to Go High Level the other day. Instead of combing through forums, I asked Perplexity:
“What’s causing ‘Invalid token for authentication’ when connecting Zapier with GHL, and what steps should I follow to fix it?”
I got a concise explanation and the fix, backed by reddit (you can add sources like social or academic).
These are just some of the most useful searches I use Perplexity for. Im sure you can think of plenty of different use cases for your self. Reply below with what you'll be doing your for first AI search. I read every response!
💸 Free vs. Pro: Updated 2025 Comparison
Bottom line: The free plan is fantastic for everyday searches. Pro subscription is even more value and a bit more flexible - and after reading the last 2 parts of the series after this, you will definitely see the value.
Sign up here through PayPal to score 12 months Perplexity PRO for free.
Thank me later 😉
I was lucky enough to get a Pro sub for free through a promotion
🧪 Try It Now (2-Minute Challenge)
- Go to perplexity.ai or download the mobile app
- Upgrade to PRO for FREE for 12 months here
- Type a clear, specific question from your to‑do list (use my prompts above as inspiration)
- Ask follow up questions from the suggested list or click a source
The best part about Perplexity is that it will give a researched answer, with links optional. So much faster than Google.
If you enjoy it, explore Spaces to organize threads by project, and personalize your profile to tailor the responses.
🫡 Final Thoughts
Search shouldn’t feel like a chore.
Perplexity AI search shifts your mindset from “What should I click?” to “What do I need to know?”
It cuts research time by at least 75% in my experience, keeps you focused on insights, and sparks better ideas.
And this is just the beginning.
Next, we’re going deeper with Perplexity Comet, the AI-powered browser that turns these answers into actions.
Then we’ll explore advanced workflows like cross-tab mentions. For now, start treating search as a conversation, not a scavenger hunt.
If this newsletter helps you, forward it to a friend who spends way too much time Googling.
They’ll thank you.
To smarter searching and more joyful learning,
Nahid
P.S. If you just read this, make sure you get Perplexity PRO for FREE.
