Use Ask Plaud to query any recording directly, and one-tap actions to instantly generate Summary, Action Items, or draft an Email.
What is Ask Based on a Single File?
Ask Based on a Single File is a specialized mode within Ask Plaud. It isolates the AI's analysis to a single, specific recording for maximum precision.
The system contextualizes all responses within your file's transcript and summary. It attaches clickable timestamps to every answer for immediate verification. This mode supports both unrestricted queries and pre-built Quick Actions.
How to ask a question about a single file?
You can interact with Ask Plaud in two ways inside any single recording:
- Type a direct question (e.g., "What was the product launch date mentioned?") into the "ASK" input box at the bottom of the summary screen.
- Use pre-built buttons for everyday tasks like "Summarize," "Get Insights," "Generate To-Dos," or "Write Email".
What you get back from Ask Plaud
When you ask a question, the AI returns:
- A clear, formatted core response (e.g., a list of action items).
- Clickable timestamps (e.g., [00:15:30]) linking to the exact moment in the transcript and original text snippets for verification.
- 3–5 recommended follow-up questions to dive deeper.
- Save any Ask Plaud answer as a summary note with one tap.
Notes on Ask Based on a Single File
- Answers are grounded in the file. The AI only references the active recording's transcript and summary, not your full library — for cross-file queries, use Ask Across All Files.
- Timestamps are verifiable. Click any timestamp reference in the answer to jump to the exact moment in the recording.
- Saved answers stay with the recording. Use the one-click save action to keep an Ask Plaud answer as a summary note attached to the file.
FAQ about Ask Based on a Single File
What's the difference between this and Ask Across All Files?
Ask Based on a Single File restricts the AI to one specific recording — ideal when you want depth on one meeting or interview. Ask Across All Files searches your entire library at once — use it when you don't know which file the answer is in.
Why are there clickable timestamps in the answer?
Clickable timestamps let you verify any quote or claim by jumping to the exact moment in the transcript. This makes it easy to confirm the AI's answer against the original audio.
Can I save an Ask Plaud answer for later?
Yes. Click the save icon to attach the answer as a summary note on the recording. The saved note stays with the file across Plaud Web and the Plaud App.