Your search query is processed in a number of steps, as shown in the image below.  

Infographic: steps in the search flow

What exactly happens in each step?

1. The search query is converted

When you enter a question, the AI assistant sends it to a language model, namely GPT-4.1 mini. This Large Language Model (LLM) This Large Language Model (LLM) enriches your search query with synonyms, related terms, translations, and relevant background knowledge on the subject. Based on this, the model rewrites your question into a search query that Limo can interpret correctly. Read here how this happens.

⚠️ Please note:
  • The LLM does not have access to the most recent events
    GPT-4.1 mini does not have information published after June 1st, 2024. If you have questions about recent research topics, you will still receive an answer, but the model may be less able to enrich your question with current terms or insights.
  • Content filtering
    A filter automatically blocks content that is considered offensive or harmful. If you ask a question that is detected as such, you may:
    • o receive no answer, or;
    • o receive a notification that the quality of the answer may be limited.
    You can avoid this problem by formulating your search query in a concrete and detailed manner and using scientific terms. This helps the model understand that your question is academic in nature.

2. The results are retrieved

The extensive search query is executed in a sub-collection of Limo, and the results are retrieved. Read here which sources the tool uses .

3. The results are re-sorted

The 30 most relevant results are re-analyzed. Based on semantic similarity (embeddings), the tool selects five sources that best match your search query.

💡Good to know:  You will not always see exactly the same five sources when you re-enter the same search query. See also the the info about "Try again".

4. An overview is generated

The abstracts of these five relevant sources are sent back to the language model with the instruction to create a brief overview, including references to the sources that were scanned.

5. The assistant formulates an answer

You will see a concise, informative answer, along with the five sources that were consulted and suggestions for related search queries.
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Last updated: 11/09/2025