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Chat with Documents Using ChatPDF

Overview

ChatPDF is an innovative tool that uses artificial intelligence to interact with PDF documents efficiently. It allows users to upload PDF files and ask specific questions about their content, making it easier to quickly extract relevant information. This tool is especially useful for students who need to get answers to complex topics, summarize long documents, or delve into specific sections without reading the entire text. Below are the steps to effectively use ChatPDF and enhance your study experience.

Privacy Note

This tool has not undergone a privacy impact assessment at TRU and should be used with caution. Ensure you understand how your data is collected and used before using this tool. Also, ensure the use of this tool abides by the expectations set by your instructor for your assignment.

Learn the Process

Upload the PDF file

Begin by uploading the PDF document you want to explore. Make sure it’s complete, relevant to the information you need, and that you have permission to upload it into an AI platform.

Start asking questions

Once the file is uploaded, type your question in the text box. Be clear and specific to get the most accurate response.

Avoid vague questions like “What does this document say?” Instead, ask focused questions that guide the AI toward the information you need.

Examples:

  • “What are the main arguments presented in section 2?”
  • “Summarize the findings of the study on page 15.”
  • “What recommendations are made in the final chapter?”

Ask specific and focused questions

If you know a page number, section title, or keyword, include it in your question to help the AI locate the relevant content.

Examples:

  • “What does the document say about ‘artificial intelligence’ on page 8?”
  • “How does the author define ‘digital literacy’?”

You can go beyond simple summaries and ask the AI to:

  • Compare ideas
  • Extract definitions
  • Organize content into lists or tables
  • Identify themes or implications

Get answers

ChatPDF will analyze the document and provide relevant answers directly from the content, saving you time from reading everything.

Request summaries or details

If needed, you can ask for a summary or specific details, such as “Can you summarize the third chapter?” or “What are the key takeaways from this article?”

Verify the information

Always double-check the answers with the original document to ensure they are correct. Use ChatPDF as a complement to your reading, not a replacement.

*This video shows the process.

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