Perplexity API: Build a Small Research App
References checked: 5 October 2026

Task: What should the app return when retrieval or generation fails?
Inputs: [provide one application question, approved test data, and a backend secret store]
Audience: [intended reader]
Required result: a small application with transparent evidence and controlled failures.
Use approved sources and preserve dates, definitions, conditions, and exceptions. Separate confirmed facts, interpretation, and unresolved questions. Do not invent missing details. Show the evidence needed to review consequential claims. Ask one focused question if a missing requirement blocks the result.
Acceptance checks:
- No secret reaches browser code
- Inputs are validated
- Failures have clear messages
- Sources remain inspectable

Practice
Define a minimal response with answer, sources, and error status. Write three cases that should fail clearly.

Official reference
https://www.perplexity.ai/help-center/en/articles/10354842-what-is-the-perplexity-api-platform