Introduction
The rise of Generative AI, often called Gen AI, has introduced powerful new tools for accessing information and performing web searches. Whether you want to engage in a conversation with an AI like ChatGPT or conduct a deep dive into real-time data using platforms like Perplexity, Gen AI offers new ways to gain knowledge and insights. It doesn’t just process and predict — it can generate new information, create content, and personalize responses, making it a versatile tool for students, professionals, and curious minds alike.
In this post, we will explore the two main uses of Gen AI: engaging in conversations to learn new information and conducting web searches. We’ll also provide examples to show how you can integrate these tools into your daily routine to save time and enrich your knowledge base.
Understanding AI vs. Gen AI: Key Differences
To begin, let’s clarify what sets Generative AI apart from traditional AI. Traditional AI refers to computer systems that mimic human cognitive functions, such as problem-solving and pattern recognition. These systems excel at handling predefined tasks but are limited when it comes to creating original content.
In contrast, Gen AI takes AI a step further by not only interpreting information but also generating new content: text, images, or solutions based on user input. This includes crafting conversation responses, summarizing complex data, and even writing articles. It is particularly valuable in knowledge-sharing and learning settings.
1. Using Gen AI for Conversations: Chatting with Regular LLMs (Large Language Models)
One of the most common ways to leverage Generative AI is through conversational tools like ChatGPT or Claude. For beginners looking to try out Gen AI, the free plans on these platforms are more than sufficient to explore a new source of knowledge.
These models use large datasets to understand and respond to various prompts, providing detailed answers and explanations on virtually any topic. Here’s how conversational Gen AI can benefit you:
How to Use Conversational AI
- Initiate a Dialogue
Start with a specific question or topic. For instance, if you’re interested in improving your interview skills, you could ask ChatGPT, “What are the key success factors for a candidate in an interview?” The AI will provide a simplified, detailed response based on vast online resources. - Engage in Follow-up Questions
Unlike traditional search engines, which require you to refine your search manually, Gen AI allows for dynamic, in-depth follow-up questions. Let’s say the AI lists communication as one of the key factors. You could ask, “Please elaborate on communication skills. What are the common mistakes?” and get a response that builds on your previous question. - Personalize the Learning Experience
Customize the conversation by asking the AI to adapt the tone or complexity. For example, you could request a “beginner-friendly” or “technical” explanation to match your knowledge level. Give as much information as you can, and the AI will tailor the respone based on the provided context.
Example of Conversational AI in Action
Imagine you’re planning a vacation and need information on popular tourist spots. Instead of searching for each location individually, you can ask ChatGPT, “What are the must-see attractions in Paris?” and follow up with questions like, “How do I get from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum?” This conversational flow provides comprehensive answers in one continuous dialogue, making it easier to plan your trip efficiently.
Limitations of Generative AI: Access to Up-to-Date Information
While Generative AI tools like ChatGPT offer remarkable capabilities for generating content and answering questions, they do have limitations, particularly in regards to real-time information. These models are trained on data that may not include recent events or updates, meaning their responses might be outdated.
For example, if you ask about the latest news or developments in a specific field, Generative AI might not provide the most current information because it lacks access to real-time internet browsing capabilities. This can be a significant drawback when timely and accurate data is crucial for decision-making.
“To understand the training data limitations of the Generative AI tool you’re using, simply ask: “What is the cutoff date of your training data?” It will provide this information.
2. Using Gen AI for Web Search: Perplexity vs. Traditional Search Engines
It is important to use the appropriate tool for each task. When you need to get access to up to date information, Gen AI tools like Perplexity represent a new frontier in web search by integrating conversational abilities into real-time information retrieval. Unlike regular search engines that provide a list of links, Gen AI search tools can directly summarize information, saving you time on filtering through multiple sources.
How to Use Gen AI for Real-Time Searches
- Ask a Direct Question
Instead of typing in a string of keywords, ask a specific question. For example, if you’re curious about the latest trends in AI research, you could ask, “What are the recent interest rate change made by Bank of Canada in 2024?” Perplexity will then pull information from multiple sources and offer a concise summary. - Access Summarized Insights Instantly
Perplexity often provides a distilled response with key takeaways, so you can get a comprehensive view without clicking through multiple search results. - Check for Source Verification
Gen AI search tools like Perplexity often include citations, allowing you to verify the credibility of the information. You can easily see where the information came from, which adds a layer of trust not always present in traditional search results.
Example of Gen AI Search in Action
Suppose you’re researching recent trend in policy interest rate in Canada. Typing “Canada policy interest rate 2024” into a regular search engine would lead to numerous links, which you’d have to sift through. However, with Perplexity, you can simply ask, “What is the current trend in policy interest rate in Canada in 2024?” and receive a summarized answer with credible references, saving you significant time and effort.
Now take it to another level: To see how easy it is to gather specific information, try asking this: “Provide a table of all interest rate changes made by the Bank of Canada since 2022 until now. The table should have columns for the decision date, the percentage change, and the new rate at that date.”
You’ll be impressed by how quickly you can get the information in exactly the format you need.
Traditional Search vs. Gen AI Search: Which is Better?
| Feature | Traditional Search Engines | Gen AI Search (e.g., Perplexity) |
| Results Format | List of links | Summarized, conversational answers |
| User Interaction | Requires refining queries | Engages in dialogue for clarity |
| Credibility | Depends on source quality | Often includes cited sources |
| Learning Curve | Low, but may need query tweaks | Slightly higher, especially if tailoring responses |
While traditional search engines are straightforward, Gen AI search is ideal for users seeking summarized, contextual answers.
Conclusion
Gen AI is transforming the ways we access information, offering new tools for conversational learning and web search. Whether you’re chatting with a Large Language Model for knowledge-building or using Perplexity for real-time search insights, these tools make knowledge acquisition faster and more personalized. Each method—conversational AI or Gen AI search—has unique benefits, and combining them could create a powerful toolkit for students, professionals, and anyone eager to learn.
What are your thoughts on using Gen AI for conversation and search? Have you tried any of these tools? Share your experiences in the comments!