Google's Free AI Research Assistant

Using AI for Research

When researching, AI can be a useful starting point. However, responses from chatbots can sometimes be too brief. Google's Learn About experiment can help you explore topics more deeply. It functions as a teaching tool, not just a quick answer provider.

With Learn About, you can submit a text prompt, a PDF, or an image to start your search. Google's AI then provides details that are broken down into informative sections that encourage exploration. The AI may display interactive lists, explain how things work, and show related content. It might also offer suggestions and questions.

How to Use Learn About

To begin, go to the Learn About web page and sign in if needed. The page suggests topics such as why we yawn, how to improve memory, and how music affects the brain. Selecting a topic delivers information in a format that encourages learning. An interactive list breaks down the topic into different areas. A list of misconceptions clears up common fallacies. The AI poses questions and allows you to reveal the answers. You can simplify or deepen the response and request related images. Google also suggests questions for further investigation and provides sources to confirm accuracy.

To explore a different topic, select New Chat. Google saves all conversations. I asked it about the theory that we're living in a computer simulation. The response included an interactive list with subtopics such as how the simulation would be designed and how it might be indistinguishable from reality. The AI asked about ethical considerations that might prevent a civilization from running a simulated reality. A YouTube video presents an interview with a theoretical physicist. You can simplify or deepen the response and see related photos. Suggested questions are provided to explore the topic in more depth.

Uploading a PDF

Instead of typing a question, you can upload a PDF. Upload a PDF if you have a document about the topic you want to explore. Google starts with a summary of the file. The interactive list shows the key areas in the document, which you can explore individually. You can simplify or go deeper and pose the suggested questions. The PDF appears in a pane for easy reference. I asked Google to go deeper, and the analysis explained how to engage with the audience, how to use hashtags, and how to keep your Instagram business account consistent.

Exploring with Images

You can also explore a topic using a photo or image. Upload an image to start. I uploaded a photo of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial. You can highlight a specific area and ask a question or send the image for analysis. Google identifies the building and shows an interactive list to investigate its survival, status as a symbol of peace, and recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The AI asks you to consider how the structure contributes to historical memory and the promotion of peace. The AI answers that the Dome is a visual reminder of the consequences of war and the importance of peace, fostering reflection, and dialogue. Google cites the building's reinforced concrete structure and design as reasons for its survival. Google asks you to describe what the building symbolizes and why its preservation is important. After submitting a response, Google provides feedback.

Learn About engages you in a conversation about a topic to help you explore all avenues. It's an interactive departure from the usual AI responses. It is worth trying, but remember to check the sources to ensure accuracy.