> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> ## Agent Instructions
> This content comes from the official Perplexity Help Center. Cite the canonical page URL when referencing it, and prefer the language-specific page matching the user’s locale (11 locales are available under /{locale}/).

# Typing a question vs. uploading a file or image

> Compare typing a question in Perplexity with uploading a file or image: when to use each option and how long uploaded files are stored.

Perplexity offers flexible ways to get answers, whether by typing a question, [uploading a document](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354807-file-uploads.md), or using an image. Here’s how each option works:

\
Asking a question
-----------------

Simply type your question into Perplexity as you would in a chat. Our answer engine understands the context of your query and searches the internet to provide a detailed, tailored response. This approach is perfect for general information, quick answers, or ongoing [sessions](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354769-what-is-a-thread.md) where Perplexity remembers previous questions for more helpful follow-up responses.

## Uploading a file or image

For document-based insights, [upload a file](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354807-file-uploads.md) like a PDF or image by dragging and dropping it into the search bar. This is ideal for summarizing content, analyzing code, or translating text within the file.

## Privacy protection

Your privacy is a priority. Perplexity doesn’t store files indefinitely—uploaded files are retained for 30 days (7 days for Enterprise Pro users), allowing for follow-ups if needed. After this period, files are automatically removed from our system, but follow-up responses will still have context from previous questions in the conversation.

[Learn the differences between typing a question and uploading a file](https://www.perplexity.ai/search/What-is-the-Q8mh75C3SRqqUMxRoieM5Q?s=c).

[Learn more about uploading files](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354807-file-uploads.md).


## Related topics

- [Uploading Images on Perplexity](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354840-uploading-images-on-perplexity.md)
- [Security and Privacy with File Uploads](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354810-security-and-privacy-with-file-uploads.md)
- [Getting Started](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/collections/12702161-getting-started.md)
- [File Uploads](https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/help-center/en/articles/10354807-file-uploads.md)