# Models and Deep Search

Pick a model for the job, and use Deep Search when completeness matters more than speed.

## Choose a model [#choose-a-model]

The model selector sits next to the chat input.

* **Auto** is the default on every plan. Anara picks the model for you.
* On Free and Plus, chat runs in Auto only.
* On Pro and above, you can choose any model in the selector. The selector shows each model's relative cost, and more capable models use more of your included usage.

You can switch models mid-conversation. The next message uses the new model; earlier messages are unchanged. A common pattern is to explore with Auto, then switch to a stronger model for the synthesis that matters.

To set defaults, go to **Settings > Preferences** and choose a model under **Chat** and, separately, under **Editor**.

For which models are on which plan, see [anara.com/pricing](https://anara.com/pricing).

## Model Council [#model-council]

Model Council sends one question to three models in parallel and synthesizes their answers into one response. It is available on Max plans.

## Deep Search [#deep-search]

Deep Search is a multi-step research mode in Agent chat. It plans an approach, works through your sources in several passes, and returns a longer, more structured answer with broader citation coverage. It is available on Max plans.

1. Open Agent chat.
2. Click **+** on the left of the chat input.
3. Turn on **Deep search**.

It stays on for the rest of that conversation and applies from your next message. Turn it off from the same menu.

| Use Deep Search for                                 | Skip it for                          |
| --------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------ |
| Literature reviews across a folder                  | Quick factual lookups                |
| Comparing findings or methods across many studies   | Follow-ups on ground already covered |
| Summarizing a large document set into one narrative | Creating notes, citations, or images |

Deep Search respects the same [source controls](/guides/sources) as any chat. For a literature review, open the folder with the relevant papers first so it works through them systematically.

<Callout>
  Deep Search is slower and uses noticeably more of your included usage than a standard answer. Usage limits and plans are covered in the [help center](https://support.anara.com/en/articles/14473264-understanding-usage-limits).
</Callout>