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asknex offers multiple specialized search modes, each optimized for different types of research questions and information sources. Understanding these modes helps you choose the right approach for your specific needs, from quick web searches to deep academic research. Search-modes

Overview of Search Modes

How to Switch Modes

  1. Search Bar: Look for the mode selector in the search interface
  2. Focus Controls: Use the dropdown menu to select your preferred mode

Mode Selection Guidelines

Query TypeRecommended ModeWhy It Works
General ResearchAuto ModeIntelligent, adaptive search
Document AnalysisNexDocsSearch your uploaded files
Single DocumentPDF ChatDeep dive into one file
Creative TasksLLM ModeAI-powered generation

Auto Mode

Overview

Intelligent mode that automatically selects the optimal search approach based on your query characteristics. It uses live web search to provide current, up-to-date information from across the internet.

Key Features

  • Query Analysis: AI analyzes query intent, complexity, and requirements
  • Mode Selection: Automatically chooses web, research, or document search
  • Multi-Mode Synthesis: Combines results from multiple modes when appropriate
  • Adaptive Learning: Improves selections based on user feedback and success rates
  • Fallback Options: Switches modes if initial approach doesn’t yield good results

Best For

  • New or unfamiliar topics
  • Mixed research needs
  • Quick exploratory searches
  • When you’re unsure which mode to use
  • General research assistance

Example Usage

Query: "Explain quantum computing and its business applications"
→ Detects educational + business research needs
→ Combines web search for current applications with research mode for technical depth
→ Provides both accessible explanations and business case analysis

LLM Mode

Overview

Direct AI model interaction mode that leverages large language models for creative tasks, code generation, and complex reasoning without web search.

Key Features

  • Creative Generation: Stories, poems, marketing copy, and creative content
  • Code Assistance: Programming help, debugging, and code explanation
  • Mathematical Reasoning: Step-by-step problem solving and explanations
  • Language Translation: Multi-language support with cultural context
  • Format Conversion: Transform content between different formats and styles

Best For

  • Creative writing and content generation
  • Programming and technical tasks
  • Mathematical problem-solving
  • Language learning and translation
  • Brainstorming and ideation

Example Usage

Query: "Write a Python function to analyze customer sentiment in social media posts"
→ Generates complete, well-documented code
→ Includes error handling and performance optimizations
→ Provides usage examples and test cases

NexDocs Mode

Overview

Knowledge base search mode that queries across all your uploaded documents simultaneously.

Key Features

  • Unified Search: Search across PDFs, Word docs, spreadsheets, and text files
  • Cross-Document Insights: Connects information across multiple files
  • Context Preservation: Maintains document relationships and hierarchies
  • Citation Tracking: Links answers to specific documents and sections
  • Real-Time Indexing: Instantly searchable newly uploaded content

Best For

  • Internal document research
  • Policy and procedure lookups
  • Project documentation review
  • Knowledge base queries
  • Compliance document analysis

Example Usage

Query: "What are our current cybersecurity policies?"
→ Searches across all security documents, policies, and procedures
→ Synthesizes information from multiple sources
→ Identifies any conflicts or outdated information
→ Provides actionable recommendations based on current policies

Ready to explore different search modes? Try each mode with the same query to see how they provide different perspectives and depths of analysis.

Start Exploring Search Modes

Experiment with different search modes