Deep research
Also: research agent, research mode
A feature where the AI searches the web many times and writes a long report with links. Every link still needs checking.
The fuller definition
Deep research is a product feature in which an agent runs many web searches, reads the pages, and compiles a long cited report over several minutes.
Delivery may be possible in the first week of April, subject to inspection.
Delivery was promised on 1 April.
The output changes certainty, invents a specific day, and loses a condition. A link to the real source makes checking possible; it does not make that summary accurate.
A concrete example
Asked about a regulatory topic, the feature produces a report with dozens of citations to web pages.
The distinction that matters
The citations point to whatever the agent found online. They are not verified legal authorities, and each one must be checked in the primary source.
Related terms
AI agent
An AI system that takes steps to do a task. It may choose tools, search, or work with files. Its access should have clear limits.
Documents & retrievalCitation
A pointer to the source that supports a statement, so someone can check it.
Law & professional practiceFabricated citation
A case or quotation the AI invented. It looks real and is not.
Where it is taught
Research with AI without outsourcing the authority checkSource and further reading
Anthropic · Building effective agentsThe definition and example are written for this library. The link gives background, official documentation or legal authority as labelled. Legal scope depends on the jurisdiction and current text; product features depend on release and settings.