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DevelopmentIntermediate2020

RAG

Retrieval-Augmented Generation

RAG lets an AI search trusted information before it writes an answer. RAG stands for Retrieval-Augmented Generation.

Explained simply

RAG lets an AI search trusted information before it writes an answer. RAG stands for Retrieval-Augmented Generation.

1Question
2Search trusted sources
3Retrieve useful text
4Grounded answer

At a glance

Category
Development
Difficulty
Intermediate
Introduced
2020

Real example

A workplace chatbot searches the latest HR policies before answering a leave question.

Why it matters

It can make answers more current, relevant and grounded in trusted information.

Timeline

Origins

The ideas behind RAG begin developing.

2020

RAG becomes a recognised term or technique.

Wider use

Research and practical applications increase.

Modern AI

RAG becomes connected to newer AI systems and products.

Today

RAG remains relevant in the development area of AI.

Dates for broad concepts may describe the period when the idea emerged or became widely used, rather than one exact invention date.

Learn next

Simple infographic

A quick visual way to understand RAG.

1Question
2Search trusted sources
3Retrieve useful text
4Grounded answer
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