How to Use Semantic Scholar
A beginner-friendly guide to getting started with Semantic Scholar in 2026.
Getting Started: Step by Step
Create your Semantic Scholar account
Visit Semantic Scholar's website and sign up for a free account. You'll need an email address to get started.
Set up your workspace
Once signed in, configure your Semantic Scholar workspace. Set your preferences, invite team members if needed, and customize the interface to match your workflow.
Explore semantic-search
One of Semantic Scholar's key features is semantic-search. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore tldr-summaries
One of Semantic Scholar's key features is tldr-summaries. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Explore citation-graphs
One of Semantic Scholar's key features is citation-graphs. Navigate to this feature and experiment with it to understand how it fits into your workflow.
Integrate with your existing tools
Connect Semantic Scholar with the other tools you use daily. Most integrations can be set up in the settings or integrations panel.
Start using it for real work
Now that you're set up, start using Semantic Scholar for actual tasks. The best way to learn is by doing — don't worry about getting everything perfect right away.
Pro Tips
- Start with the free plan or trial to explore Semantic Scholar's capabilities before committing to a paid subscription.
- Use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow — most tools have extensive shortcut systems.
- Check Semantic Scholar's official documentation and community forums for advanced tips and best practices.
- Review your workflow after 2 weeks of use and adjust your setup based on what's working and what isn't.
Key Features to Explore
Alternatives to Consider
If Semantic Scholar isn't the right fit, here are some similar tools:
Ready to Try Semantic Scholar?
AI-powered research tool by Allen Institute for AI that helps scholars find relevant papers using semantic understanding, with TLDR summaries and citation analysis.