AI Use Case: Deep Research

Inspired by Jeremy Caplan's Wonder Tools newsletter from May 2.

In the AI arms race, many LLMs have deployed a "deep research function" which searches, gathers, analyzes, and generates a report based on the research. In theory, this mimics a deeper research project that a human might do - even including citations - after constructing a plan.

This feature is deployed by most models on a freemium level (limited daily use for free users) and requires selecting the option under the prompt window, a topic worthy of deeper research (that isn't breaking news), and understanding of hallucinations.

Caplan presents 9 use cases, including detail on the results and comparison across models on results:

Crafting Custom Itineraries

Compiling Organization Reports

Research on Notable People

Exploring Complex Concepts

Discover Places in Depth

Analyze Debates and Controversies

Decode Cultural Works

Explore Evolving Trends

Examining Historical Context

He also provides strengthening tips for prompts: "be detailed about the topic, reasons for interest, and uses of the information," "specifying tone and format," and "being patient."

Not AI generated AFAIK

Of course - the implications for students is significant. Is there a place where students can use AI to support their learning - drafting a paper or essay based on AI research? If we are encouraging students in the efficient and ethical use of Deep Research, I believe we have three considerations:

1. Efficient Use and Background Knowledge - deep research may serve as a great second step in a research project. The first step would be encouraging students to read one, summarizing, valid source on the topic to provide essential background knowledge and conceptual understanding. This is key in ensuring basic learning and a level to detect and identify potential hallucinations.

2. Efficient Use and the Proper Tools - even though AI doesn't always cite its sources properly - with the citation aspects and proper prompting, students should be able to utilize this tool - in my opinion - to the same extent they might use a google or other query-based effort. Citation of the deep research report itself (and inclusion) would be a must for me.

3. Ethical Use and Citations - The usage of the report would be contingent on its own citation and verification of each of the citations within the report for existence.