How to Use FutureHouse

Getting started with FutureHouse

In this guide, you will learn how to use FutureHouse to automate the retrieval and synthesis of scientific literature. By the end, you'll know how to efficiently find and summarise relevant academic papers using the PaperQA tool.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to FutureHouse's website.
2. Click on the "Sign Up" button located at the top right corner of the homepage.
3. Fill in the required information, including your email and a password. Confirm your password and click "Create Account".
4. Check your email for a verification link and click it to activate your account.

Step 2: Your first literature search

1. Log in to your FutureHouse account.
2. On the dashboard, locate the "PaperQA" tool in the main menu.
3. Click "PaperQA" to open the search interface.
4. Enter a relevant keyword or phrase related to your research topic in the search bar and hit "Search".
5. Browse the list of retrieved papers. Click on a paper title to view its summary and key information.
6. To extract specific insights, use the "Extract Information" button displayed alongside the paper details.

Step 3: Get better results

• To refine your search, use the filters available on the left side of the PaperQA interface. You can filter by publication date, journal, or type of study.
• For more comprehensive results, try using more specific search terms or phrases. This helps the AI retrieve more relevant papers.
• Save your searches by clicking the "Save Search" button, which allows you to revisit them later without re-entering your queries.

Pro tip

Most beginners overlook the "Advanced Search" option. Click on it to access additional fields where you can specify authors, journals, or even include/exclude certain keywords. This can significantly improve the relevance of your search results.

Common mistake to avoid

A common mistake is to enter overly broad search terms, which can lead to an overwhelming number of results. Always try to use specific keywords or phrases to narrow down your search effectively.