Homework Assignment
The Perplexity Challenge
This week, replace at least 5 Google searches with Perplexity queries. The goal is to start building the habit of reaching for AI before a traditional search engine.
- Use Perplexity for 5+ searches - real questions you'd normally Google
- Note the differences - what was better? What was worse?
- Try one follow-up question - ask Perplexity to clarify or go deeper on at least one response
- Capture one "aha moment" - screenshot or note when Perplexity surprised you
Perplexity shines for questions that would normally require reading multiple articles. Try "What are the key differences between..." or "Explain [complex topic] for someone who knows [related field]."
Read: The Shape of Meaning
Read through the interactive explainer on how LLMs represent meaning. This builds on what we covered in session and will deepen your understanding of why AI behaves the way it does.
- Read the full piece - interact with the visualizations
- Note one concept that clicked - something that made AI behavior make more sense
- Come with one question - anything that wasn't clear or you want to explore
The Two Roads of AI
Visual timeline of AI history - why the symbolic path faded and neural won. This provides historical context for why LLMs work the way they do, and hints at where the field might be heading.
This is optional enrichment for those who want deeper context. Not required for Module 2.
How to Submit
No formal submission required. Come to Module 2 ready to share:
- Your Perplexity "aha moment" - be ready to share with the group
- One question from the reading - we'll address these in the session