Getting Started with Source-Grounded AI

This session introduces source-grounded AI tools, with a focus on NotebookLM, which generate outputs using only the curated documents provided by the user. Participants will also explore practical ways to approximate retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) in tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot by constraining inputs and structuring prompts.

The session will examine both the opportunities and limitations of source-grounded AI in public sector contexts. Participants will learn how to set up a secure workspace, upload and organize documents, and use core NotebookLM features—such as Mind Maps—to explore dense materials and generate insights that can be used in policy communication.

Participants should bring a publicly available document to use during the session exercises.