Exa Semantic Research
When using Exa for semantic or conceptual search:
- •Use exa_search (or the actual Exa tool name as provided) for conceptual and semantic queries rather than simple keyword match.
- •Cite sources (URLs, titles) for each claim or finding; Exa returns relevant links and snippets.
- •Combine with search_web when both are available for broader coverage (keyword + semantic).
- •Prefer clear, concept-based queries (e.g. "approaches to X", "comparisons of Y and Z") to get the best semantic results.
- •If results are thin or off-topic, rephrase the query to be more specific or try a different angle.
Step-by-step instructions
- •Turn the user's question into a conceptual or semantic query (what concept or relationship they care about).
- •Call exa_search with that query; use any filters or options the tool supports (e.g. date, type) when relevant.
- •Read the returned results (snippets, URLs, titles) and select the most relevant for the answer.
- •Summarize findings and cite each point with the source URL or title.
- •If the user asked for a comparison or list, structure the answer (bullets or numbered) and cite per item.
- •When both exa_search and search_web are available, use Exa for conceptual depth and search_web for recency or keyword-focused backup.
Examples of inputs and outputs
- •
Input: "What are the main approaches to implementing feature flags?"
Output: Short list of approaches with a source URL or title per approach from exa_search results; conceptual query works well with Exa. - •
Input: "Find comparisons of tool A vs tool B."
Output: Structured comparison (e.g. pros/cons, use cases) with citations from exa_search; note if info is from marketing vs third-party.
Common edge cases
- •No good results: Say that semantic search didn't return strong matches and suggest a more specific or rephrased query, or try search_web if available.
- •Conflicting info: Present the main views and cite each source; do not pick one without noting others.
- •User asks for "everything about X": Give a structured summary (overview, key points, sources) and offer to go deeper on one aspect.
- •Exa vs search_web: Use Exa for conceptual/semantic questions; use search_web for very recent or keyword-heavy queries when both are enabled.
Tool usage for specific purposes
- •exa_search: Use for conceptual and semantic queries (e.g. "approaches to X", "how Y relates to Z"); cite returned URLs/titles; combine with search_web when both available for comprehensive research.