Yes, users can influence the sources DeepResearch uses or provide specific starting points for research, though the extent depends on the tool’s design and available features. Here’s a breakdown of how this works:
Direct Input of Sources or Starting Points Many AI research tools allow users to specify URLs, upload documents, or reference specific datasets as starting points. For example, a developer could input a GitHub repository link, a research paper DOI, or a technical blog URL to guide the tool’s focus. Some platforms also let users upload PDFs, markdown files, or code snippets to establish context. This ensures the AI prioritizes or incorporates content from those sources. For instance, if you’re investigating a niche framework like SvelteKit, providing its official documentation URL helps the tool anchor its analysis to trusted material rather than generic tutorials.
Filtering and Prioritization
Even without direct uploads, users can influence sourcing through filters. Parameters like date ranges, domain restrictions (e.g., *.arxiv.org), or keywords narrow the pool of sources. A developer researching "React Server Components" might exclude blogs or forums older than 2022 to avoid outdated examples. Similarly, specifying domains like github.com or stackoverflow.com steers the tool toward code-centric discussions. Some tools also let users weight certain sources (e.g., prioritizing peer-reviewed papers over social media posts), balancing breadth and reliability.
Limitations and Practical Considerations While customization is possible, most tools limit arbitrary source selection to maintain data quality. For example, DeepResearch might block unverified domains or require minimum citation thresholds for academic references. Technical constraints also apply: parsing complex file formats (e.g., Jupyter notebooks) or accessing paywalled content (e.g., IEEE journals) may not be supported. Developers should verify whether the tool supports API integrations (e.g., pulling data from Confluence or Notion) or allows exclusion lists to omit irrelevant sources. Ultimately, user influence is a balance between flexibility and the tool’s ability to enforce credibility and relevance.