> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.kamascend.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Research Assistant

> Research topics with AI assistance and get cited, sourced answers

The Research Assistant helps you research topics with AI-powered search and analysis. Ask questions and receive answers with citations and source references from your uploaded documents.

## When to Use It

Use the Research Assistant when you:

* Need to research industry trends or market data
* Want to find specific information in your uploaded documents
* Are preparing for client meetings or presentations
* Need cited sources for claims or proposals

## How It Works

<Steps>
  ### Create a Session

  1. Go to **Research** from the sidebar
  2. Click **New Session** or start typing in the chat
  3. Give your session a name for easy reference

  ### Ask Questions

  Type your research query in natural language. The AI will:

  * Search your uploaded documents and knowledge base
  * Analyze relevant content
  * Generate a response with citations
  * Suggest follow-up questions

  ### View Sources

  Each response includes a **Sources Panel** showing:

  * Which documents were referenced
  * Specific passages cited
  * Links to view source documents

  ### Switch Sessions

  The sidebar shows your research session history. Click any session to resume where you left off.
</Steps>

## Response Modes

Choose how detailed you want responses:

| Mode         | Description                                |
| ------------ | ------------------------------------------ |
| **Brief**    | Quick, concise answers                     |
| **Standard** | Balanced detail with key sources           |
| **Detailed** | Comprehensive analysis with full citations |
| **Generate** | Create content based on research           |

## Tips for Best Results

1. **Upload relevant documents** — The assistant can only search what you've provided
2. **Be specific** — Narrow questions get better answers
3. **Use follow-ups** — Click suggested questions to dive deeper
4. **Check sources** — Verify citations for critical information
5. **Name sessions** — Easy to find later when you need the research

## Privacy & Data

* Uploaded documents are stored securely in your account
* Documents are only searchable by you
* You can delete documents at any time

## Related Features

* [AI Coach](/features/ai-coach) — Get coaching based on your research
* [Business Case Builder](/features/business-case-builder) — Use research in proposals